Beyond Consolation

HAZEL'S POV

“Yes, we’re sorry for the little commotion that happened today,” I said, keeping my voice even though I could still feel my heart pounding from earlier. “The casket isn’t going to be buried here after all. There was a last-minute change in plans.” I tried to keep my tone polite, almost apologetic, hoping the manager would just let it go.

His expression didn’t shift much. He was one of