Over the years, Hazel blossomed into one of Redcrest High's best students.
She was hardworking, determined, and dedicated to her academic work.
Her seriousness earned her numerous awards and the respect of both her teachers and fellow students.
Hazel's story of resilience inspired many.
Years passed, and Hazel grew into a beautiful, ambitious young woman.
With the support and love she received from the Brookes, she built a strong foundation for her future.
Eventually, Hazel established her own multi-million dollar company, becoming a highly successful entrepreneur admired by many.
Life with the Brookes had been full of love, happiness, and stability. But one day, everything changed.
In the middle of an important business meeting, Hazel's phone buzzed.
She glanced at the screen, a call from an unknown number.
Who would be calling me at this moment? she wondered, letting out a long sigh before answering.
"Is this Hazel?" a young woman's voice spoke on the other end of the line.
"Yes, this is Hazel," she responded quickly.
"Your parents... they've been in a serious accident.
They're in critical condition, fighting for their lives," the voice said, filled with sadness.
Hazel froze. The words hit her like a thunderbolt.
Her eyes widened in shock, and tears started to stream down her face uncontrollably.
The people in the meeting grew alarmed as they watched their strong, composed boss break down.
"Madam, is everything alright?" her assistant rushed over, concern etched on her face.
"My... my parents…" Hazel barely managed to whisper, her voice cracked with emotion.
Fighting to pull herself together, Hazel turned to the meeting attendees and apologized.
"I'm so sorry, but I have to leave. The meeting is postponed."
She quickly gathered her things and rushed to the hospital.
Upon arrival, she ran down the halls, desperate to reach the ward where her parents were being treated.
But as soon as she got there, a nurse met her with devastating news.
"We are deeply sorry… we lost them," the nurse said softly, almost in a whisper.
But Hazel heard it clearly.
"No… No! This can't be!" she cried, collapsing to her knees as the overwhelming grief consumed her.
At that moment, a familiar voice called out behind her.
"Hazel, pull yourself together," Marriam said gently. Hazel turned and saw her
best friend standing there, her face filled with sympathy and concern.
"I came here as soon as I heard the news," Marriam added, pulling Hazel into a comforting embrace.
"How could they leave me like this?" Hazel sobbed, her voice filled with heartbreak and sorrow.
Marriam became Hazel's pillar of strength in her darkest hour.
She stayed by her side, helping her organize the funeral and offering constant support.
The funeral was solemn and filled with mourners, family friends, business associates, and sympathizers who came to pay their respects and console Hazel for her unimaginable loss.
The pain of losing her beloved parents was unbearable, but the love and support around her kept her from falling apart completely.