THE DIVORCE GAMBIT From Dumped Wife to CEO's Forever novel Chapter 1112

Warren’s voice trembled as he whispered his final goodbyes.

Each repetition was louder than the last, the final one erupting as a raw, guttural shout.

It was a family belief that the living must guide the departed with words of love so their soul wouldn't linger. He stood by her side, holding her hand, and spoke from his heart.

Only then could the departed soul find its way toward paradise.

Almost as soon as Warren's final cry faded, the butler waiting outside signaled for the staff to begin the preparations. The Richards family had arranged for an abundance of white lilies and black velvet mourning ribbons.

The butler's eyes were red-rimmed as he murmured, "May God bless your soul, Madam. May you rest in peace in heaven."

The maids, too, were teary-eyed. Hannah had been a kind employer, never harsh or demanding. She always had a gentle smile for everyone and paid her staff the highest wages. Now that she was gone, their sorrow was genuine. How could such a wonderful woman be gone just like that?

Inside the room, as Warren's voice subsided, a chorus of sobs rose to fill the silence.

"Mom!"

"Grandma!"

"Grandma!"

"..."

The initial shock of Hannah's passing had stunned everyone into silence, but now the dam of grief had broken.

Hearing the cries from inside, Celeste, who was standing in the hall, finally broke down completely. "Grandma! Grandma!"

Though Celeste had only been married into the family for a short time, Hannah's kindness toward her had been real and profound. Just a week ago, they had been chatting excitedly about the baby's arrival. And now, she was gone.

After delegating the tasks, Warren looked at Carey. "Carey, you should be the one to dress Mom. Put her in her favorite deep blue velvet gown, and don't forget her pearl necklace."

It was their duty to ensure their mother departed with dignity.

Outside, a church bell tolled three heavy, somber notes, announcing the departure of a soul.

"Of course, Warren."

This was the advantage of having a large family. In times of loss, they could support one another, ensuring everything was handled with grace and without panic.

Carey sat by the bed, weeping. "Mom, I'm here to get you ready."

Jade and Warren, kneeling in the front row, heard her. Jade looked up and gently reminded her, "Carey, try not to cry while you're dressing her. It's an old saying that if your tears fall on the departed, their soul can't rest peacefully."