John POV
Crissy and my mother arrive at the house to drive me to the funeral home. It is time to say goodbye to Ellie. I have tried to be strong and be the man Ellie would have wanted me to be today, but I am tired. I am not ready to deal with everyone at the funeral home, but I know that these people loved Ellie.
We ride silently on the drive to the funeral, and I am thankful for that. I am not ready to talk about how I feel. My mother is fully aware of how I feel, and so is Crissy. I don't think I should have to say it out loud.
When we arrive at the funeral, Jeff is waiting for me outside. He is smoking a cigarette and looks worried. The rough older man had a special place for Ellie. I am thankful he pushed me when I needed it. He has been there so many times for me over the years.
