The main hall of Macey’s house was packed with people.
A wooden bed was placed in the center, with Macey lying peacefully on it. The once warm and caring woman who had comforted Felicia was now lying still, eyes closed, with a serene expression. It was the image of a crumpled hundred dollars pieced together, given with the words, “Take it and pay for your tuition. A hardworking child like you shouldn’t be let down.”
It was Macey who saw her, hungry yet still washing clothes. She took warm boiled eggs and two sandwiches from her pocket, whispering, “Eat these quickly and quietly so the others don’t see.” It was the look of pity, accompanied by a sigh, “Poor child.”
It was the smile as she patted her head, full of kindness, saying, “Licia, you’re the best girl in the world!”
It was the day before, when Macey had asked someone to catch some small fish, saying, “You little glutton, wait for me. I will fry you some fish filets.”
Felicia’s throat tightened. The breeze felt cold against her face.
A basket of freshly cleaned small fish lay on the stove, ready to be fried, but it hadn’t been done yet.
But sadly, she would never get to eat it again.
She slowly walked up to the bed and looked at Macey’s face. The villagers had already helped care for everything, changing her clothes and fixing her hair, making her look like she was merely sleeping.
Felicia turned to look at Romeo, who sighed and said, “Licia, don’t blame yourself. It’s not your fault. We kept the news of your disappearance quiet. Macey didn’t know anything. We told her you had just gone missing, and everyone was looking for you.
“She was taking an afternoon nap, peacefully, and then… She never woke up. Her health had always been poor. She often said that this day would come sooner or later. She had heart problems and couldn’t let go of the guilt from something that happened many years ago.
“Over time, despite seeming fine on the outside, her body had already begun to deteriorate.”
Macey had two daughters and a grandson, but they had all died in a car accident more than ten years ago while on their way back to Alverton.
Since then, she had lived with guilt and regret. It was an unshakable burden in her heart.
Felicia had heard these stories from the villagers before, but now, she regretted not saying more to Macey when she left. She had only briefly greeted Macey before heading to Hillfort, never imagining it would be their last meeting.
If she had known, she would have said more comforting words.
She lowered her head, feeling a deep ache in her heart.
Romeo gently patted Felicia’s shoulder, saying, “Licia, try to take it easy. Birth, aging, sickness, and death are all part of life. And these years with your care, Macey was very content. Besides, look at her peaceful, smiling face-she surely didn’t want you to be sad
She nodded. Though she understood the words, her tears were unstoppable.
The village took care of Macey’s funeral arrangements, with Romeo organizing everything. Since her children were gone, he was her only family left.
The villagers, kind-hearted and
warm, had arranged for the night vigil. Everything was proceeding smoothly Since Romeo was over 50, he had a more relaxed view on these matters. Seeing Felicia still looking pale, he asked Aya Hardin to take her to their home.
“Licia, it’s too noisy here. Go back with Aya and get some rest. Have a good sleep, alright?”
Felicia left with them. As she left the courtyard, a small white puppy ran to her feet, circling and whining loudly. “Cloud?”
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