Stormy Eyes

Chapter Eighteen: Grief Accompanied by Comfort

I look in the mirror, horrified by my appearance. 

It's been a busy week around the house. I've tried to keep up to date on my varsity work by attending as many hybrid lectures online, studying and doing assignments. Amelia and Andrew agreed to cover my shifts, so at least I was covered there too. Carter helped Aroura and Archer as much as he could, babysitting Storm (which is the best thing I could imagine) and cooking every now and then. Carter and I went out to the store to pick up stuff for Aroura when she was at work, we fetched Storm and tidied the house. We'd steal private moments when we could, soft kisses and make out sessions. We stayed in one bed every night since the first, which I'm grateful for. My dreams have been terrible, so it's been nice to have him there when I wake up in a panic. I've woken up crying twice due to a dream of Nora, but carter was there to scoop me up and tickle me to sleep. 

Right now, however, I am getting ready for the funeral. Dressed in a black dress that Aroura lent me, my hair scooped up into a semi-neat bun (the best I'm capable of) and a light layer of make-up to mask my baggy eyes. It isn't doing a great job though. 

Carter walks up behind me, placing both ands on either of my shoulders. "You look beautiful, despite what I know is going through your head." I gave a lopsided smile and turned to drape my arms around his neck, placing a kiss on his lips. Whispering, "Thank you." He looks amazing in a suite. He's lucky that Archer and him are similar sizes, or he'd have nothing to wear. Suits are too expensive to buy for one occasion, because Carter doesn't strike me as the regular suite wearing type. 

"You're handsome." I gazed into his calm eyes for as long as I could. They're the only things keeping me tethered to sanity today. 

"Why thank you, Love." He smirked, running his hands along my head. "Shall we join your family in the living room? I think they're ready to leave." 

I groaned, "I'm not sure if I'm ready for this. This makes her passing so much more real." 

"I'll be with you. This is your opportunity to grieve properly. Feel all your feelings and give her a proper goodbye." He pulled me into a hug and help me tight while I sniff back tears. 

"Let's go." 

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"Nora was many things: a baker, a master sewer, a business owner, but more importantly a dear friend and family member." The priest spoke in a mournful tone, he too knew her personally. "Her passing was not one that was expected so soon, but it came at a time of her suffering. God has relieved her of her pain, as she joins him in heaven." She believed in God and was an active member of the church. She was a good person, so I believe her to be in heaven, whatever heaven may be. "Her family and friends will mourn the loss of such a special person that added much value to their lives, but we must also celebrate all that she did while alive. There was not a more active member of our community than her. Many children grew up with her support and guidance." Chris, who stood next to me, and I shared a sorrow-filled glance. He reached for my hand and I leaned my head on his shoulder. "May she never be forgotten, but may we too move past this sadness. Let us pray." The priest prayed, then there was a moment of silence. I looked over at my family, Aroura was in tears, despite not growing up with Nora she did spend many years of her life as a part of our family, which included Nora. Archer held a sad Storm, while holding his wife close to his chest with his other arm. Chris stood with his head bowed in respect, as did my mom, dabbing at her eyes with a tissue. 

I looked over at Carter who was facing the coffin, but turned to look at me when he noticed I was watching him. He mouthed, 'you okay?'. I nodded through tears, mouthing back, 'just feeling my feelings'. 

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A/N

Just a tribute to a character from book one and an opportunity for character development for Espen. Hope you enjoyed.