The stillness of the cemetery shattered as the crowd surged forward, hearts pounding, minds racing with disbelief and hope. The undertakers, hands shaking, scrambled to release the latches on the small casket. Every moment felt eternal, as if time itself had paused, waiting for a miracle.
Anna Parker clung to her husband, tears streaming down her face, her body trembling with fear and anticipation. Around them, the mourners, initially stunned into silence, began murmuring prayers, or simply clasped their hands to their mouths, eyes wide.
With a deep breath, the lead undertaker gently lifted the lid of the casket. The gathered crowd leaned in, breath held collectively. There, beneath layers of pink satin and lace, Lily’s eyes fluttered open, her small chest rising and falling with the unmistakable rhythm of life.
