CELINE's P O V

The following morning, I made the necessary arrangements for the cremation of my mother, and her urn was deposited in a columbarium in this city. I was alone in my sorrow over her passing. I was alone myself, and no one showed me any compassion; nonetheless, I didn't feel the need for either of those things. I am a strong woman. My mom taught me how to be. And I was able to complete the task on my own. I am going to survive without anyone else in my life at all.

It ...