Mr. Evans paused. He, too, took the time to feel the weight of the words just read.
He returned to the letter. “Cassandra, look at me.”
Cassandra turned to look at the old funeral director, who startled and looked immediately embarrassed.
“Ms. Worthing, I know this may be very hard for you and the others. I do not believe that Mr. Amaranth wishes for you to look at me. Please look at him while I am reading his words.”
“Oh?” she blushed brightly. “Are you sure?”
The old man sighed, wishing he had a different response for the young woman.
“I am afraid so, Ms. Worthing.”
Cassandra held her eyes on him for another moment before willing herself to pull away and look directly at the corpse of Joshua Amaranth.
“Thank you, Ms. Worthing.”
He cleared his throat and resumed.
“There was neve
