Unaccountable Love

10

Chapter Ten
Omniscient
Sunday
9:33AM

Naledi woke up early, feeling a mix of sadness and resolve. Today was Lindsay's funeral.

She arrived at Lindsay's house, where she found Stephan, Nathan's older brother, sitting in the living room. Stephan's usual calm demeanor was replaced by a somber expression.

"Morning, Naledi," Stephan said, standing up to hug her.

Naledi hugged him back. "Morning, Stephan. How's Nathan?"

Stephan's eyes clouded. "He's struggling. Lerato's trying to keep him strong."

Naledi nodded, her heart heavy.

Lerato entered the room, carrying a tray of coffee and rusks. "Good morning, everyone. Let's get ready for the service."

Nathan walked in, dressed in a black suit, his eyes red-rimmed.

"Hey," he said softly to Naledi.

Naledi hugged him tightly. "I'm here for you."

Stephan placed a hand on Nathan's shoulder. "We're all here for you, bro."

Nathan was more of a mama's boy then Stephan was and that is why he was affected by it more than anyone.

The family shared a moment of silence before Lerato gently urged them to get moving.

"Time to say goodbye," she whispered.Lerato handed Nathan a cup of coffee. "Drink this, Nathan. It'll help calm your nerves."

Nathan took a sip, his eyes fixed on the photo of his mother on the mantle.

Stephan checked his watch. "We should leave soon. The funeral procession will start at 10."

Naledi helped Lerato gather the last-minute items: tissues, hymn books, and Lindsay's favorite scarf.

As they filed out of the house, Nathan paused, taking one last look at the home he shared with his mother.

The family walked to the waiting cars, where the funeral director and drivers awaited.

Stephan opened the door for Naledi and Lerato, then took his place beside Nathan in the lead car.

The procession began, making its way to the church where Lindsay's life would be celebrated.

The funeral procession pulled up to the church, its steeple reaching toward the somber gray sky. Mourners already filled the benches, their faces etched with sympathy.

Stephan helped Naledi and Lerato out of the car, while Nathan took a deep breath, preparing himself.

As they stepped into the church, the soft murmur of condolences enveloped them. Nathan's eyes scanned the crowd, taking in the sea of faces.

The funeral director, Mr. Jacobs, greeted them with a solemn nod. "The service will begin shortly."

Lerato clutched Lindsay's favorite hymn book tightly, her eyes welling up. Stephan placed a reassuring arm around her shoulders.