Saturday morning unfolded with a hushed stillness that clung to the air like fog. Katherine stood in front of the mirror, her fingers hesitating as she adjusted the collar of her black blouse. The fabric felt unfamiliar on her skin, not because she hadn't worn black before, but because of what it meant today.
"Do you think the Grandpa would like my bowtie?" Nathan asked, standing proudly in his matching black shirt and slacks. He had insisted on the bowtie, saying it made him look 'extra respectful.'
"I think he'd be very proud of you," Katherine said softly, reaching out to fix the slightly crooked knot under his chin.
Beside them, Maya twirled in her dark dress, the hem flaring just a bit above her knees. "Is it okay to bring flowers even if you never met the person?"
Katherine's gaze met her daughter's in the mirror. "It's more than okay, sweetheart. Flowers are a way of showing you care, even without words."
