Page 65 of Angel

The marble headstones are identical. Both etched in script and my heart is heavy as Gabriel removes the first wreath, waiting for me to lift the second.

His wreath is loaded with hyacinths, lilies, and white hydrangea heads. Mine is not so flamboyant, darker tones, roses, ivy, and eucalyptus.

We stand at the foot of the two graves, and Gabriel whispers, “May your soul rest in peace.”

I daren’t look at him. It’s too painful to focus on anyone else’s pain right now.

He kneels, placing the wreath on my mother’s grave, his fingers shaking as he dusts some drifted leaves away.

He bows his head, his shoulder slumped, and as I read the words, my eyes burn with unshed tears.

Forever loved. Forever mourned. Never forgotten.

Rest now, our beautiful girl.

One day we will come for you.

And not even Heaven will keep us apart again.

RIP, Nicole Powell

He stands and bows his head, which is my signal to lay the second wreath, this time on the grave beside her.

He couldn’t live without her

Living is impossible without an angel to guide you.

RIP Johnathan Powell.

I’m angry; I always am, but my tears dried up years ago. I hate this ritual and my obligation to take part in it. It’s done–shit happens and I am so done with suffering because of it.

Gabriel sighs, taking one last look at the two graves, and I follow him out, my heart always trailing behind me.

It’s been close on twenty years, and it doesn’t get any easier. If anything, it gets worse every year that passes. I play my part like the good son I am and pray for the day when I break free of the chains of the past and start living my life the way I always wanted.

CHAPTER 25

SOPHIE

When I left Jason this morning, we could have been like any other couple, except for the fact that I slept in the guest room.

Jason told me he finds it hard to sleep. I wonder if he would find it difficult if he had company?

I can’t believe my luck in finding him. He is everything I ever wanted in a guy, and I have yet to discover any faults.

My phone rings and I note Bethan’s name flash on my screen.

“Hey.”

“Hey, babe. Just checking in on you. What’s occurring?”

I wonder whether to tell her my news, but as I’m already late for the studio, I merely reply, “Sorry, I’m running late, but I would love to catch up. Are you around town today? How about dropping in at the studio at 1pm?

“Sure. I’m heading into town to run a few errands before the kids finish school. That would be perfect.”

“I’ll put your name on the door. The security guard will direct you.”

“I can’t wait.”