Max hadn't planned to stay at the funeral for long. He'd come for one reason, to say his goodbyes to Abby, and he'd done that.
Still, leaving right away didn't feel right. Walking in, bowing his head, and then disappearing would make his presence seem hollow, like a formality instead of something real. So he decided to wait, to stay until everyone had finished their prayers.
One by one, the line of mourners approached the front, offering incense and silent words to the girl whose smile still lingered in the photographs. Abby's father remained there the whole time, bowing slightly to each visitor, his expression calm but unreadable.
When the last stick of incense had been placed, Abby's father finally stepped away from the photo. His voice was quiet but carried in the hush of the hall as he thanked everyone for coming.
