The sound was sickeningly crisp. The ceramic shattered against the stone floor, sending a cloud of gray dust into the air.
A deathly silence fell over the hall. The guests froze, horror etched on their faces.
A stinging heat pricked behind my eyes and nose. I forced the tears back, dropping to my knees. Desperation clawed at my throat as I frantically scooped up the ashes with my bare hands, ignoring the sharp shards biting into my skin.
Above me, Bryce went on a rampage. He kicked over the flower arrangements and tore down the banners, destroying the memorial hall like a madman.
My mother's funeral was ruined.
I gathered what little remained of her ashes, clutching them to my chest as I walked out of the hall. Layla chased after me, her heels clicking rapidly on the pavement.
"Brandon, wait! Bryce just has a bad temper. He can't stand it when people talk about him behind his back. He went a little too far this time, I admit," she said, breathless. "Don't worry. I'll pay for another funeral. I'll arrange everything..."
Her words, meant to soothe, only churned the bile in my stomach.
Layla grabbed my arm to stop me. I looked down at her hand, then at her face.
"No need."