When You're Gone (Colette) novel Chapter 5

Colette's heart sank when she saw the stuff on the floor. How did James get his hands on them? She thought she had hidden them well.

After panicking for a moment, she had an idea. She stammered, "Tomorrow is my parents' death anniversary. I was making some preparations."

James' feelings of doubt vanished after hearing the explanation. After a pause, he volunteered, "I'll visit them with you tomorrow."

"Uncle James, it's fine. Just spend your time with Sophie and on your work. I was a burden to you in the past, but I will no longer trouble you anymore."

James was shocked by her rejection, as he had thought she would be happy about it. She left before he could react.

Colette quietly tore off another page from the calendar and tossed the shreds into the waste bin. She only had four days left.

James recounted her words when he watched her leave. He blurted out softly, "You're never a burden to me."

Colette did not hear him, as she had made her way back to her room.

…

With four days left in this world, Colette visited her parents at the cemetery alone. She placed the flowers in front of their tombstones and stared at their photos. Their warm smiles still felt like yesterday.

Sitting between the two graves felt like sitting between her parents. "Dad, Mom, I wonder if you are enjoying your next life. Please do not blame me for my stubbornness in giving up reincarnation for seven more days on earth.