Alana

Chapter Five: Rhiannon's Grief

When Alana went to the truck, she saw Rhiannon waiting for her.
“Rhiannon, is there something wrong?” she asked. She could tell Riri had been crying, her makeup was streaked and her face was as red as a cardinal's feathers.
“Mike just died.” she said.
“Oh, no! What happened?”
“He got diagnosed with cancer about 5 years ago, he didn't want me to tell you because he thought he could beat it. Unfortunately, over the past year or so, it progressed and today he lost the battle but he put up a hell of a fight.” Rhiannon could barely finish her sentence without breaking down.
“Oh, c'mere, you.” she said.
“How's George holding up?” Alana asked.
“He's trying to pretend that he's not as upset as he is. But, c'mon, that was the love of your life, you're allowed to mourn him.”
Rhiannon said.

Alana held Rhiannon for a while. After a few minutes, Rhiannon let go as she sniffled.
“You wanna go for a ride? I'll drive.” said Alana. Rhiannon silently nodded and said,
“It might get my mind off of things.”

She couldn't believe that Mike was dead. Even though she hardly knew him, she knew that he was down to earth and a good man through and through. Riri was looking out the window, but Alana heard her sniffling.

“His wake is this Sunday. It's kinda like a funeral, but different.” said Riri.
“What time is it?”
“9 o'clock.”
“I'll be there.”
“You don't have to come.”
“Of course I do. You're my girlfriend and your father just died. I'd be crazy not to come. Besides, it's my job to support you.” said Alana, offering a smile.
Riri was still non-responsive.