Michael hung his head low, ashamed.
“I failed her. I failed you,” Michael managed to blurt out, however weakly, all of his strength dedicated to clenching his hands. “I’m here to attend the funeral…”
“I want to ask that you don’t,” Mr. Quick said, and at least, Michael noted he did so with a hint of regret. “I know it’s unfair, Michael. It’s unfair to treat you like you are to blame.” He paused, clearly thinking, but you are. Michael knew he was. “But I would like to ask that you not attend. People will be upset, not just us. Other than that, Michael…I just don’t know what to say. I don’t understand why you’re here.”
Michael didn’t know either. He knew it was unfair to them and Eleanor’s entire family. And her friends. Everyone knew -- they knew for a fact -- that the only reason Eleano
