The weather called for rain, but it couldn’t be any more perfect outside in the city.
Camila was a ray of sunshine, even on the cloudiest days. There is no doubt she is here, gracing us with her spirit, as Mason and I walk into the stunning cathedral on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, where we will say our final farewells.
Only to me, there will never be a goodbye. She will always live in my heart.
I’m happy the Moraleses kept her wishes.
She didn’t want a wake.
Once, she told me it was creepy that people wanted to stand around and stare at her dead body, so it wasn’t shocking when we heard it was a one-day service.
When we walk in, I can see the closed mahogany casket at the end of the aisle, and my heart starts racing against my chest.
I’m not ready to look.
I don’t see Nate anywhere, and I’m not sure if I’m happy about that yet or not. Seb is also missing.
Rosa and Javier are sitting in the front, family and friends surrounding them. Leo is to our right, visibly upset, and Harrison is standing off by himself, rocking Camila’s baby, Claudina.
“I’m going to see Harrison first. I want to meet the baby.”
Mason nods, pointing toward Leo. “I need to see him.”
I smooth out his tailored black suit and smile, encouraging him, knowing it’s going to be hard on him to give his condolences to one of his best friends.
“Love you,” I whisper and walk off toward Harrison.
“Hi.” I place my hand on Harrison’s shoulder.
His head turns toward me, his striking blue eyes are dull, and his face looks washed out and tired.
He smiles sadly. “How are you doing?”
I shrug, scared that if I answered, I’d burst out crying.
“I’m sorry?—”
He shakes his head, the words catching in his throat. “Don’t. It’s okay.”
Thankful he gives me an out, I step up and peek into his arms.
“Oh, Harrison.” I quickly wipe my tears, which I can’t hold back anymore.
The only light I see in Harrison’s eyes is when he lovingly gazes down at the sleeping beauty in his arms.
“Claudina Rosa, meet your Aunt Madeline,” he whispers.
I softly brush my fingertips along Claudina’s forehead as she sleeps peacefully in Harrison’s arms.
“She looks just like her,” I murmur.
“She’s beautiful, isn’t she?”
“Precious.” I stare at Harrison with sincerity. “She’s lucky to have you.”
Claudina squirms in Harrison’s arms.
“May I?” I hold my arms out, and Harrison smiles, placinghis daughterin mine. “Oh, I’m so in love with her. I should have realized something was wrong when Camila wouldn’t let me visit.”I should have pushed back.
