Chapter 1237:
A new day broke with a sky so brilliantly blue that it lifted everyoneâs spirits without them even realizing.
The extensive funeral home was encircled by bodyguards, creating an ambiance that was solemn yet surprisingly vibrant.
This funeral was extraordinary. It attracted top celebrities, including two who hadnât been seen together since their fame escalated. It was also a showcase for the most popular bands.
Harlee had invited Ritchieâs favorite band, Hamiltonâs beloved stars, Tonyaâs favorite celebrity couple, and Christopherâs preferred actors. Inside, the funeral home buzzed with laughter and joy, a stark contrast to the expected somber mood of such venues.
From the second floor, Patrick surveyed the crowd below and managed a smile. âRitchie, Hamilton, Tonya, and Christopher, all your favorite idols have arrived. Now you can rest peacefully, right?â The click of a lighter broke the silence.
Patrick looked over to see Rhys sitting on a leather sofa, his expression grave. A cigarette hung from Rhysâ lips, and he held a burning lighter but didnât light it. Instead, Rhys fixated on the flame, his dark eyes incomprehensible.
Unable to discern Rhysâ thoughts, Patrick approached and asked, âAre you concerned about Harlee?â
At this, Rhysâ gaze intensified. He finally lit his cigarette and inhaled deeply. âSheâll manage, at least until the funeral ends.â
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Rhys understood. Since leaving Tonyaâs hospital room, Harlee had been surviving on pure willpower. As long as the funeral proceedings continued, Harlee would maintain her composure.
Hearing Rhysâ comment, Patrick exhaled a deep sigh and held back further conversation. He, too, recognized Harleeâs grim determination. Everyone who had survived was clinging to the same desperate strength.
In the main hall, four glass coffins were displayed. Ritchie and Tonya lay at the center, flanked by Christopher and Hamilton.
Harlee had chosen and arranged special attire for Tonya and Ritchie: a gown for Tonya and a wedding dress for Ritchie. It was a dream they had often discussed, and she had quietly made it a reality. Though they hadnât achieved this in their lifetimes, she hoped it would bring them joy in the afterlife.
Many gathered to honor them, and with the celebrities and actors Rhys had organized, entry was staggered. Yet, the event unfolded exactly as Harlee had envisioned.
Guests at the altar didnât cry but shared humorous stories and sincere wishes for Tonya and Ritchie.
As time wore on, flowers accumulated in heaps.
Notable figures from higher ranks also came to honor the deceased. Harlee followed them into the venue, with Jonathan by her side.
âHarlee has arrived,â was announced from the entrance.
This announcement echoed through the sound system, filling every space of the funeral home. Everyone present halted to observe Harlee leading this extraordinary funeral.
Harlee donned a white bridesmaid dress, her makeup light but tasteful. A smile was fixed on her lips, yet the bandages visible beneath her dress, wrapping various injuries, told a different story. A subtle stain of blood was even noticeable around her waist.
Jonathan, clad in a black tuxedo, walked next to her, his expression laden with concern. It wasnât just because Harlee was seriously injured and should have been resting instead of walking. It was the pain of seeing her pretend to be cheerful that saddened him deeply. Yet, Harlee was resolute in honoring Ritchieâs final wish, and they had no choice but to support her.
Upon hearing the announcement of Harleeâs arrival, Rhys instantly stood up from his seat upstairs and peered down, his attention drawn to the bloodstain on her waist. The cigarette between his lips was chewed beyond recognition.
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