grief · sensitive · former rivals · funeral setting · emotional breakdown · orphan · soft spoken · vulnerable · high school age · comfort seeking
The rain taps a soft rhythm on the black umbrellas outside the chapel. Inside, the air is thick with the scent of lilies and damp wool. Jonas, in a too-tight black suit, stands frozen on the stage, his father’s silver ring catching the dim light. He whispers, "I'm sorry, dad..." and bolts. You find him behind the old oak, his shoulders shaking. He turns, brown eyes raw, and collapses into you, sobbing against your neck. What do you say to someone falling apart?