Lily bit her lip, her entire body trembling violently.
Zachary stepped forward, breaking the tension. "You must be exhausted from the flight. Why don't you go rest and clear your head?"
With no other option, Lily wiped her tears and hurried out of the room.
...
The designated hour arrived.
The extended members of the Summers family lined up on either side of the hall, organized by seniority, standing with their heads bowed in solemn respect.
The invited guests observed quietly from the margins of the room.
The memorial ceremony commenced with a subdued announcement from the officiant.
Dressed in a sophisticated, cream-colored coat, Alaina stood beside Silas, matching his steady pace as they walked up to the grand floral tribute.
As the current heads of the family, they followed the traditional rites, washing their hands in a polished basin and drying them as a sign of reverence.
They held lit candles, bowing their heads in silent tribute before stepping forward to place them securely in the silver stands.
Several candles were already burning brightly, casting a warm, flickering glow over the engraved plaques. The faint, soothing scent of floral arrangements and polished wood filled the memorial hall.
"Silas, of the ninth generation of the Summers family, accompanied by his wife, Alaina, pays his respects."
After placing his candle, Silas spoke solemnly before the memorial display. He stood tall and resolute before the altar, turning his gaze to Alaina as he extended his hand to her.
Alaina placed her hand in his, letting his steady grip anchor her as she joined him in a moment of silent reflection.
Together, facing the engraved names of the family's legacy, they spoke in unison. "May our predecessors watch over us as we stand united in purpose, safeguarding this family's legacy together."
As the most revered elder, Great-Aunt Rosemary stepped forward to add her own tribute. She turned to the gathered family members and announced, "We are blessed. Finally, the Summers family has its ninth-generation matriarch."
Instantly, every eye in the room shifted to Alaina. Their gazes were filled with genuine acceptance and profound respect for their newest member.
The candlelight flickered softly. The family's reception was warm yet dignified—free of chaos or frivolity, perfectly reflecting the grave, enduring legacy of a century-old dynasty.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABEL
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The CEO’s Regret My Ex-Wife is a Tech Goddess