Cole had been a titan in Avalon City. Even his funeral was a testament to that, with a never-ending stream of mourners coming to pay their last respects.
The crowd was united in their sorrow, and as Evangeline looked on, her eyes grew red with tears.
At the entrance of the funeral home, Yale, the eldest son, stood solemnly before his father's portrait. Evangeline's uncles were scattered around, each lost in their own thoughts.
Evangeline made her way to the front, gently laying flowers on the casket.
Yale's gaze followed her every move, his eyes brimming with concern. "Evie, why are you here? You should be resting after just waking up..."
"Uncle Yale." Evangeline's voice trembled as she fought back tears. "How could I miss Grandpa's final farewell?"
She dabbed at her tear-streaked cheeks, inhaled deeply, and asked, "Is there anything I can do to help?"
"You..." Yale started to speak, then paused, struggling with his words. At last, he said, "Just stand behind me."
Together, the niece and uncle stood, expressing their gratitude to the mourners who had come to say goodbye.
Then, a sleek black stretch Bentley rolled up, turning heads as it made its way to a stop at a distance. The car was an omen of prestige, and the crowd watched with curiosity.
Evangeline was the man's only treasure, his granddaughter, and Trey's own grandson had treated her so poorly. He felt terrible about it.
In front of everyone, Trey bowed deeply, then wiped away more tears before walking away.
Evangeline felt the wooden box in her pocket and hurried after him. "Mr. Gordon, wait up!" She caught up to him just as he paused, stepping in front of him. Without much ado, Evangeline opened the box in her hand and held it out to Trey.
"Evie, what's this about?" Trey's face lost all color, a look of shock spreading across it. "Didn't Walter tell you? This bracelet is from our Gordon family..."
"I know." Evangeline cut him off, her lips parting in a nervous attempt to find her voice, finally breaking the silence.
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