"… And a wonderful young man he was… But let us not grieve his death, but cherish the good times we all shared with him." As the words echoed around the silent room, I let out a sniff. The sniffs became contagious and soon the whole room was *sniffling*.
Where was I? A funeral of course. My life was nothing but change and death, and total sadness, ever since I was three. You'll slowly find out the details of my life as I am ready to tell them to you, but now isn't a good time. I've been in this church for about an hour, and I didn't think I could stand any more of it. My only friend, the boy I grew up with, the boy who took care of me since I was three, was gone. Someone stole his life, and practically stole mine too. There was nothing left for me now.
My brother Jake died on Thursday, and it was now Saturday morning. He was struck by a drunk driver while he was taking his nightly jog. They never ruled out the case because they couldn't find the guy. An obvious hit and run. My mind was spinning, I felt like it was my fault. Maybe if I was there with him? If I wasn't selfishly painting my own nails, maybe… just maybe, he'd still be here. As stupid as my theory sounds, this is my thought process. Always blaming myself for things that aren't my fault.
"May his soul live on…" The priest whispered. "The sister of Jake Whitler invites all company to her home on 27 Dedriech Avenue."
If it weren't for the priest, I would have totally forgot the reception that was taking place at my own house. I got up and followed the crowd of mourning men and women to the exit of the church. I stood by the door and watched as the crowd flooded out of the church, wiping and patting at their eyes. I received many condolences and hugs, but nothing could make me feel better.
After the last few people were out of the church, I thanked the priest, and exited the building. I made my way to my car, the one Jake bought me for my birthday two months ago, and silently slouched in the front seat. I decided I needed to pay Jake a visit before going back to my house for the reception.
The cemetery was not far from the church, and Jake's newly dug grave was smothered in flowers and condolences. I threw myself onto the grass in front of his grave, and let it all out. I weeped and weeped, until my body shook with silent sobs.
"JAAAAAAAKE!" I cried out. "COMEEE BACKKK."
I knew he wasn't coming back. It was then that it hit me, I didn't even know who had done this to me, to JAKE. I slowly gathered myself and brushed off my knees, and got up. I bent down to Jake's headstone 'Beloved older brother and angel' and whispered: "I'm going to take care of this Jake."
What I didn't know, a figure lurked behind me, several headstones away, watching and listening. He wore a suit, and concealed his face pretty well with his hair. He was crouching behind a headstone, and I thought I heard a sigh erupt from his body. I turned around, and he ducked further behind the headstone. It was too late though, I was already making my way over to him, very curious and angry towards the intruder.