Beneath the Gilded Veil

CHAPTER 1

As I watched her casket slowly descend into the ground, I couldn't imagine how I would live without her—the most amazing and artistic person I knew. Her smile, scent, laugh, and way she hugged me when I was sad. Mom, why did you have to leave? I couldn't hold back my tears any longer. I wept, shaking my head to deny the reality before me. I looked at my stepfather, Luke, standing still with tears streaming down his cheeks, his hands clutching his chest as if the weight of it all was too much to bear. He hugged Alicia and Devin, my two step-siblings whom I love so much. Mom, we were perfect, everything was perfect—why did you leave us?

"Mary Julliene  Mendoza, a beloved wife and a remarkably talented artist, you fought bravely for five years, and though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we find comfort knowing you are now in God's hands," the priest spoke solemnly.

"Your creativity and spirit touched everyone who knew you, leaving behind a legacy of love and beauty that will live on in our hearts. Your strength, compassion, and unwavering dedication to your family and art were truly inspiring. We will miss you dearly, but your light will continue to guide us."

So this is it, Mom? I close my eyes and let the breeze touch my cheeks, drying my tears. I'm broken, Mom—completely broken.

"Isa, don't be sad, please," Devin whispered in my ear as he hugged me from behind. He must have seen me staring at Mom's huge portrait. I glanced at him and forced a smile. Look at this young boy, Mom—so strong, just like you.

It's been three years since mom died from head trauma injury that led her fight for 3 years. It was raining as she was about to go home, things we're blurry and all I knew was I was running to rush to the hospital, she was comatosed for three years and then I guess she gave up. We never knew the person who did this to her, that person take the beauty of our family, the family she built, things were beautiful even if it's raining or thunderstorm if she's there.

 She was loved by the community by her talent in making canvas painting, she is the girl who has a bright smile as she walks by, what a beautiful woman.

"Do you miss her too?" I asked, noticing his eyes slowly filling with tears, though he still managed to put on a brave face.

"Yes, Mum's hugs every morning," said the nine-year-old boy who should have been surrounded by a mother's love and attention.

"But I can feel her hugs when you hug me, Isa," he added. I bit my lip and hugged him tightly. Oh God, this little boy is so sweet. I can see Mom's eyes in him. I'm so glad I still have my siblings.

"I would never leave you, my Devi. I would never leave you, Ali, or Dad. I promise that," I said, trying to hold back my sobs and tears. I will protect this family—our family, Mom.

"I know that, and I'm here for you too," Devin said, smiling at me.

"Me too!" Alicia chimed in, her bright face beaming as she held Luke's hand with her left and a white daisy in her right.