In Charlotte's Eyes

ONE: [P] Her Funeral

Two weeks passed. Charlotte’s funeral was today. Parker was granted the opportunity to write and give a eulogy speech. He spent the past week writing and practicing his speech to memory. All of Charlotte’s friends were gonna be there: Carlos, Aaron, Rebecca, Link, Kylee, and most importantly, Suzuki. Parker was a bit terrified to potentially face Suzuki again. They hadn't talked since Parker initially revealed Charlotte’s disappearance. He hoped that Suzuki didn't still consider him a murderer, but he didn't have much faith in that.

Parker dressed up in a black suit he had in a closet for God knows how long. He recited the lines in his head once more, mentally readying himself to show everyone at the funeral that Charlotte wasn’t what everyone made her out to be.

Maybe he could even convince Suzuki that his passion wouldn't have allowed him to kill her.

Here’s to hoping.

…

He arrived an hour later at the church. The sun hung high overhead, a cool, sturdy breeze in the air. A few dried up leaves dragged past his feet as he stared up at the church building. It was quiet outside. He made his way inside.

Parker immediately spotted Audrey—she hovered near the entrance, in conversation with others. She noticed him when he opened the door, and quickly turned back to the people she was talking to, saying something quickly. She stepped away from them as Parker walked slowly forwards, their eyes connecting again.

Audrey wore a black bowtie, and her usual buttery, oily top was replaced with black seed oil, sprinkled delicately atop her body. Her face featured a dainty but somber smile. Parker slowed to a stop, looking down at her, expecting her to initiate dialogue first.

“Hi, Parker.” She promptly greeted quietly. “Glad to see you make it.”

He nodded. “Same. I wouldn't have missed it for the world.”

“Most of the people here are my family members, so I understand if you feel stiff and awkward.” She warned. “But don't worry, none of us bite.” She smiled, chuckling quietly.

He snickered gently. “I'll do my best.”

“If you want, you can go to the nave and sit. You'll be in the front, since you're gonna give a speech. Suzuki will be sitting by you, so that should make things more comfortable for you.” She beamed up at him, unknowingly.

“Oh! Uh..” He put a hand on his neck. “A-Alright.” He grinned, playing along.

She smiled confidently at him, suddenly putting a hand on his shoulder. “Hey, don't be nervous. I can't wait to see what you say.” She didn't know. Parker neglected to inform her of Suzuki’s hatred. Well, then.

He chuckled awkwardly. “..Right, right.” He nodded.

“I've got a few more people I want to talk to, but all your friends are already here. Maybe go talk to them before the ceremony begins.” She suggested before walking away.

Parker’s eyes scanned the room as he continued trekking his way to the nave. There were a handful of people already sitting down inside. One of those people was Carlos. He was wearing a black tie. He was sitting a few rows back from the front, on the outside. Parker trained his eyes on him, wanting to make conversation. Perhaps it'd ease his anxiety. “Hey, Carlos,” He quietly greeted from behind the man.

He bent his head backwards to glance at him. His eyes were half-lidded, exuding an uninterested glare. His arms were crossed. “Oh, hey.” He turned his head back forwards as Parker stopped to his side.

“Where’s Aaron?”

“He's off somewhere with Rebecca—socializing.”

He snickered lightly. “Well, why aren't you? It's unlike you to sit around and do nothing.” He smirked down at him lightheartedly.