What's Next?

Thinking of You

Lorelai held tightly to her daughter's hand as the Pastor started his message.

"Today we gather to grieve with and support Rory and Jess Mariano. On June 6, they received the news that no parent wants to hear: their little boy did not make it. Times like these cut the deepest part of our souls and we are overwhelmed with emotion. The questions run through our mind: Why would God allow this? What went wrong? Why did this happen to us? The answers to these questions, if any, are few. It is okay to be confused, angry, sad. I would like to draw Jess and Rory, Lorelai and Luke, and all other family and friends gathered here today to some verses in which I find comforting during times of loss and grief."

Rory tried to sit straight and hold back the stream of tears that were slipping slowly out of her eyes. She looked over at Jess who also seemed to be doing the same; she looked at her girls sitting beside their grandmother all dressed up in little black dresses. Adley cried out and Lorelai comforted her.

"I know, baby." Lorelai said, knowing that the little girl didn't understand completely what was going on but could tell that everyone was sad.

"I now invite the immediate family of the deceased to come and view the casket and for remaining family members and friends to follow behind."

Jess stood up and took Rory's shaking hand into his. They went up to the small casket with their premature infant inside. Rory lost all hold of her emotions and grabbed onto Jess's arm. He held her back and lead her out to the procession.

Lorelai and Luke later met them before they were to go to the grave site. They went to the hearse together.

Haeven, Adley, and Rosalyn sat next to their parents.

They went around the grave site and the pastor said a few more words. After it was all over, Rory and Jess went back home for a small meal for their family and friends.

Emily hugged Rory. "I am so sorry for your loss, dear." She said and also looked to Jess. "It is such a shame that this happened and I am here for whatever you need and whenever you need it." She said.

"Thank you grandma." Rory said. "I appreciate it."

Emily hugged her once again. "Take care."

*****