Love Beyond Expectations

Chapter 22: A Farewell to Jamal

The sun hung low in the sky as mourners gathered at the grand old church for Jamal's funeral. The building itself was a majestic structure, its weathered stone façade a testament to the history it held within. Tall stained glass windows adorned with vibrant biblical scenes added a touch of solemn beauty to the solemn atmosphere.

Jamal's family was a kaleidoscope of different shades of brown, a testament to the diversity of the community that had come to pay their respects. They gathered, somber and teary-eyed, outside the church, offering condolences and sharing stories of the young man who had touched so many lives.

Inside the church, the pews were filled to capacity with people who had loved Jamal. Friends, family, classmates, and neighbors all came to say their final goodbyes. Even the girls Zuri had briefly sat with on that fateful night were present, one of them nursing an injured arm in a sling.

Esha guided her family to an empty pew, Zion grumbling quietly under his breath. He had never been fond of this particular church, with its ostentatious displays of wealth and the dubious intentions of Pastor Petersen. The man seemed more interested in collecting hefty donations than in spreading the teachings of love and compassion.

As if on cue, Pastor Petersen approached them, a false smile plastered on his face. "Zion, good to see you," he greeted, his voice dripping with insincerity. "You used to be a great Deacon."

Zion forced a polite smile, but his disdain for the pastor was palpable. The church's hypocrisy and the pastor's questionable motives had long grated on him, and today was no exception.

"Pastor," he responded curtly.

Esha shot her husband a warning glance, knowing full well the strained relationship between him and the pastor. "Pastor, it's great to see you, too. We appreciate you letting us use the church for Jamal's funeral. I know it means a lot to the family."

"Of course, of course," the pastor said, his tone insincere. "Anything for a friend."

Zion and Esha exchanged a knowing look, both aware of the pastor's ulterior motives. Still, they remained civil, for Jamal's sake.

"So, Zion, how's the construction business? Still keeping those houses looking good?" The pastor asked, his smile as fake as his concern.

"Business is great," Zion replied, his voice strained. "How's the church?"

The pastor chuckled, clearly sensing Zion's discomfort. "The church is doing well. We're always grateful for the support of the community. Without them, we wouldn't be able to do all the good work that we do."

"Is that right?" Zion remarked dryly.

Zuri watched as the two men began to exchange heated words. She knew that her father had never liked the pastor and his methods, but she was surprised by the intensity of their argument. She glanced at her mother, who wore a mask of calm, despite the chaos erupting around them.

"You're just like the rest of them," Zion accused.

"Them? You mean those that question the church?" The pastor replied.

"Yes. You're all hypocrites."

"Hypocrites? I don't think so. You're the one who's questioning the church. Who's the real hypocrite?"

Zion's eyes narrowed, his jaw clenched. "You're all the same. Preaching about love and acceptance while turning a blind eye to the injustices happening around you."

"I think you're the one who's turning a blind eye," the pastor shot back.

Zion's voice grew louder as he argued with the pastor. "I ain't giving you another dime, Petersen! You're more interested in our money than our souls. You've been corrupting this community for years!"