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Recommended songs for listening: "Somebody Still Loves You" by Duncan James, "Canon in D", "Breathe" by Taylor Swift, or "Amnesia" by 5 Seconds of Summer.
The apartment had only taken the family two weeks to pack up and sort out. Jasmine was by necessity ruthless in throwing away non-essentials.
Bruce and Alfred gave the Richards family free run of one wing of Wayne manor, helping any way they could think of. Jack kept his distance, but was just as willing to be available.
Fox locked himself in his office for a solid day when he heard the news. What he thought about, no one ever knew.
Marty and his clientele became an unofficial honor guard near the police station while the investigation came to a close. It was a mute testimony to the results a passing acquaintance can leave in the world.
When the time came for the funeral, the family decided that they would only hold a graveside, as the coffin couldn't be opened.
The white wood with black trim gleamed dully in the cloudy day. Every so often, the sun peeked through, giving a jarring contrast to the event. A guest book and basket for cards was placed near the cemetery drive. Roses, lilies, bleeding hearts, and of course, jasmine, jammed the area behind the coffin and newly cut headstone. A harpist from a local church had agreed to play the music.
Every member of Jasmine's family had made it, and huddled together as if they were holding each other upright. Gordon had arranged for an honor detail from the department, the gym was duly represented, and just behind the family stood Bruce, Rachel, Alfred and Jack with a high collar and scarf to hide his scars.
The service had started when a late car pulled in and a lady got out. The woman walked by the basket and dropped in a large, fat card addressed to "Mr. Brian Richards and Family with Love and Regrets."
She was dressed in a pantsuit, so dark green it was almost black. The flared legs swished neatly around her high heels, which she walked perfectly on. Her silk shirt was green with orange stripes, and on the neck ruffle a starburst diamond pin glimmered. Matching earrings were visible through the shoulder length, absurdly red hair. She wore large, dark glasses, and moved in a precise manor. No one looked around as she slipped quietly in between Alfred and Jack. Both men took one of her green gloved hands.
Jack leaned over so his mouth was close to her right ear and whispered, "Welcome back, Jazz."
Anyone interested in a sequel yet?