I fall.
The cold, cruel December rain assaults my back as I drop to my knees.
Head bowed as silent tears fall from my eyes.
My mind flashes images of her,
Laying in the wooden casket.
So dull and lifeless, yet so beautifully at peace.

How could she?
How could she leave me?

I tilt my head to the sky, eyes closed.
I scream.
I can't hear my screams over the pounding in my head. The ringing in my ears.

I scream until my throat is raw, my voice hoarse.
Then I open my eyes, rain pounding in my face as I look toward heaven.

In the barest hint of a whisper I ask,
"Why, why did you leave me? I can't face this alone. I need you."

I get no answer. I will never get an answer. Not anymore.

She is gone.