We got up early the next morning to get ready for the funeral. I wasn't in the mood to be around a bunch of sad people after the wonderful night I had. Azazel and I spoke for about two more hours before leaving. When we got back he joined me on the balcony and we ended up talking some more. We shared bizarre stories and childhood stories. We were similar in many ways which is why we're equally good at our jobs.
"So what exactly did he do?"
All the memories of all the shitty things he's ever done swarmed my head. "He used me. I know if it wasn't for my money he would've left to be with the girl. He had a decent job but couldn't resist buying things and putting them under my name. On top of that he had the audacity to cheat on me? I would've tortured him if he wasn't already torturing me."
"What's his family like?"
"They're very nice. Very accepting of me. I never got along with his friends though,"
"Is there anyone I should keep an eye on for you?" I smiled unintentionally. The thought of him actually doing something in my favor is just too wild.
"I'm not sure actually. Maybe his friends," he nodded.
We left and headed to the service.
———
When we arrived there was a large amount of people standing around. Not yet seated since it hadn't begun. The amount of people caused my anxiety to take over. I accidentally clutched onto Azazel. When I realized what I was doing I moved and apologized.
"It's okay," he said taking my hand back.
"I have to say a fucking speech,"
He chuckled like an asshole and said "Good luck."
I walked around greeting people I recognized.
"Hello Mrs. Smith oh my god how are you doing?" I walked over and gave Anthony's mother a hug.
"I think after this it'll get easier. But wow look at you! I'm so glad you could make it!"
"I wouldn't dare miss this."
"Who's this?" She looked over at Azazel.
"A new friend of mine. He moved into our neighborhood a few months ago. He didn't want to be disrespectful so I suggested he'd come."
"Azazel," he introduced himself and took her hand. "I am so, so sorry for your loss ma'am."
"Thank you, I didn't even know Anthony knew so much people. It's very nice of you all to show up,"
Another family member needed her so she walked away. Azazel began laughing quietly so I hit him.
"You know you'd do it, too," I gave him a look that said 'of course I would' and walked away.
———
"Anthony was such a good man..." I was about to doze off after hearing what seemed to be the 50th person say how good of a person Anthony was. It was getting boring to hear the same lie over and over again.
"I would now like to welcome Tyra up here to say some words," goddammit.
"Make me wanna give you an Oscar," Azazel whispered when I got out of my seat.
I stood and stared at everyone for a moment taking in the dreadful sight. People were sniffling, holding onto each other, wiping their tears. I felt bad for like half a second.
"Anthony and I may not have been on the best of terms before he passed but he was still the love of my life," I wanted to roll my eyes out of my head after saying that nonsense. "He was an extremely loving, caring man. Saying he was a hard worker is an understatement."
