Page 26 of Shadows of Recovery

Tristan raised his glass, a determined glint in his eyes. "Call the state tomorrow to confirm. Fly home with me after the funeral. At least you can get some rest."

James nodded, a flicker of hope in his eyes. The two brothers spent the rest of the evening talking about mundane things, finding peace in each other's company.

* * *

The next morning,the family gathered for the funeral, the mood somber and heavy. The service was held at a grand cathedral in Manhattan, its soaring ceilings and stained-glass windows casting a serene light over the mourners. Tristan and James stood side by side, their mother between them, her hand clutching theirs for support. On their other sides, Amelia held on to Tristan and Claire to James.

Tristan was asked to give the eulogy. "Thank you all for being here today to honor my father, Dr. Richard Blackwell. It is a testament to his life and his legacy that so many of you have come to pay your respects…

“…His patients were not just cases to him; they were individuals whose lives he sought to improve with every beat of their hearts…

“… He encouraged us to pursue our passions and dreams, always emphasizing the value of hard work and perseverance. He was there for every milestone, offering wisdom and comfort, and celebrating our successes with genuine pride…

“…His laughter was a constant presence in our home, a reminder of the happiness that could be found in togetherness…

“…I am reminded of a lesson my father taught me early on: that the measure of a life well-lived is not in the accolades we receive, but in the lives we touch and the love we share…

“Let’s spend our lives with the same compassion, integrity, and joy that he exemplified every day.”

As Tristan stepped down, the room was filled with a profound silence. "Rest in peace, Dad. You’ve earned it. We love you," he whispered as he placed his hand on the casket and closed his eyes. Opening them, he rejoined his seat.

After the service, they moved to the cemetery, the chilly winter air biting at their skin. The coffin was lowered into the ground, and each family member took turns placing a rose on top. A sense of finality washed over him as he placed his rose, whispering a silent goodbye.

Back at the penthouse, after a commemorative luncheon, the family gathered in the living room, the atmosphere subdued. Tristan sat with James, their mother resting on a nearby couch, surrounded by their sisters.

James cleared his throat, drawing everyone's attention. "I have something to say," he began, his voice steady but filled with emotion. "I’ve taken a leave of absence from work. I'm going to fly back with Tristan tomorrow. I need some rest and relaxation, and I want to explore neurosurgery prospects out there."

Their sisters exchanged surprised glances, while their mother looked at James with a mixture of concern and understanding. "You've been working so hard,” she said softly. "I think some time away will do you good."

James nodded. "Thank you, Mom. I just need to figure things out, and being with Tristan and Sophie might help."

He placed a reassuring hand on his brother's shoulder. "We'll take care of each other."

As the evening descended into night, the penthouse grew quiet. Each family member retreated to their rooms, the day's emotions leaving them drained. Tristan sat on the edge of his childhood bed, the familiar surroundings offering a bittersweet comfort. He reached for his phone, eager to hear Sophie’s voice.

The call connected, and Sophie answered almost immediately, her voice a soothing balm to his weary soul. "How are you holding up?"

Tristan closed his eyes, leaning back against the headboard. "I miss you more every minute," he admitted, his voice thick with longing.

"I miss you too," Sophie replied, her concern evident. "How was the funeral?"

He took a deep breath, recalling the day’s events. "It was hard, Soph. Saying goodbye was... harder than I thought it would be. But it was a beautiful service. Dad would have been proud."

Sophie’s voice softened. "I wish I could have been there with you."

"I know," Tristan said, his heart aching. "But I didn't want to put you through the family drama. James and I talked a lot last night. He's struggling with his career here, and I suggested he come back with me. He needs some rest and to explore new opportunities."

"That's a great idea," Sophie expressed her support. "He'll be good company for you on the flights back. And we have plenty of room.”

Tristan smiled, imagining her face. "I hope to make it home for Valentine's Day. I’ve made some arrangements. Just a small surprise."

"You don't have to worry about Valentine's Day," Sophie reassured him. "I just want you home safe."

"I know, but I wanted to do something special," he insisted.

Sophie’s curiosity seemed to be piqued. "What is it?"

"Losing Dad made me realize how short life is," Tristan explained. "I’ve been thinking a lot, and I will tell you all about it when I get back. I want you to know that I love you, Sophie. Truly." He fingered a black velvet ring box. Inside was his grandmother’s engagement ring.

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