As the preacher stepped forward, the church fell into a respectful hush, all eyes now turning to the front. Jason felt a surge of frustration and helplessness. He knew the truth was clawing its way out, desperate to be heard, but Susan’s interference had stifled his moment.
The preacher’s voice, steady and comforting, began to fill the space, offering words of solace and remembrance. But to Jason, it sounded distant, almost muffled by the storm of thoughts in his head. He glanced at Rex, who had finally quieted down, lying solemnly near the coffin. The dog’s silence now seemed to echo Jason’s own forced silence. He had to do something…