AUTHOR'S POV   

It's the evening of the ceremony that will officially launch a music scholarship in Kaylee's name. So much has been done lately to make this event very special. Laurent has worked closely with the president's assistant and they've planned every detail down to the last minute. Naturally working on something for their angel has brought on a swarm of emotions nearly each time they've had contact because while this will be beautiful it will only remind them that she's no longer here. One aspect of the ceremony is the slideshow of her sweetest, most precious moments. Every time he and Larry think of it they can feel a knot in their stomachs as they know that will be the most difficult for all of them. She was such an energetic little girl who was always smiling. That smile is just one of the many things they miss about her and will be the highlight. Larry knew he wouldn't be able to put the it together and when their go-to photographer called to tell them that it was finished he merely thanked him for his work as he already knows he did a stellar job on it. The ceremony begins at 6 pm and everyone is currently getting dressed. Mama is getting Emma ready while Larry gets Ayden ready to go. Laurent is currently standing in their bedroom mirror adjusting his tie. This ceremony has been in preparation for weeks now and as happy as he is that she's being honored there still couldn't be enough preparation in the world for the emotions they will feel seeing it all come together. There's also something else that's been heavily on his mind. Larry's too. Ramos is dead. Detective Brunet showed up at their house to deliver the news and of all the times he's visited his expression upon seeing him surpassed any previous expression that would give away when he had other news to give them. They couldn't imagine what he was there for because the trial was over and Ramos was serving two life sentences so for the first time in months things were getting better. When they asked if something was wrong he just flat out told them, "Ramos is dead". Naturally Larry and Laurent were completely stunned and it was moments before they could respond. They could pretty much guess what happened seeing where he was but before they could even ask what happened the detective told them that an inmate honored the 'prison code' where they essentially took care of anyone who hurt a child and upon finding out it was murder by a brutal beating he was given the same. They couldn't say that they weren't pleased and didn't feel at all bad about their feelings. After all, he took their baby girl and though the ceremony is a huge honor for her they would still give anything to have her back. It's inexplicable how different life is without her and if only the acronym of 'RIP' stood for Return if Possible. How they wish it did. Being able to see her, give her a hug or their favorite of watching from a distance as she happily read of her many books would be everything. Knowing they can't do any of that they certainly can hope that Ramos felt every bit, if not more, of the physical pain he put Kaylee through before he left this earth. When he thinks about her being terribly frightened and calling for them he finds himself choking back tears whilst putting the finishing touches on his evening attire. Since it is such a special occasion he decided to set his twists free and opt for his own fluffy fro. His facial hair is perfectly trimmed and as he's getting a look at himself in the mirror he hears the bedroom door open so he turns his head in that direction. There's his love who's dressed to perfection and what makes his look all the more special is his hair pulled back and secured into a big fro puff so his beautiful facial features shine through. He also has a perfectly dressed Ayden in his arms who's cooing with joy which is always so sweet to hear. Laurent watches them walk over and when Larry is behind him he can't resist turning around to speak to Ayden in his usual baby voice which always gets him so excited that he begins kicking his legs and laughing. He then kisses his love before turning around to face the mirror again while Larry merely looks on as he finishes. The final piece to his ensemble is a beaded necklace so he picks it up and puts it over his head then shifts his eyes to Larry's. They hold their gaze before Laurent slowly turns back around to face him and look deeply into those eyes. For moments it's just the sound of Ayden's sweet cooing as they look at each other but Laurent can see the anticipation of the emotional night in those eyes so he gently takes Larry's chin between his fingers then that comforting voice utters...

Laurent: "It's going to be an emotional night bebe...but it will also be a beautiful one".

Larry: "It will baby. The university is so great to do this for her and I know her spirit will be there tonight". *pause* "Her spirit is all around. I can feel it". 

Laurent: "I feel it too", he whispers. 

They go back to gazing lovingly at each other before Larry begins to scan his love up and down then meets his eyes again...

Larry: "You look amazing baby". 

Larry then looks at Ayden and smiles as he asks, "papa looks amazing right"? Ayden responds by wiggling his body and cackling prompting them to laugh before looking back at each other...

Laurent: *smile* "Thank you my love. You look amazing too".  

Larry: *smile* "Thank you". *pause* "You really should wear your fro more often". 

At that moment Larry raises his hand to place in his loves fro and as he runs his hand through it he whispers, "it's so big and soft". Laurent softly chuckles and since Larry is so smitten by his lustrous crown of hair Laurent promises that he will wear it more often just for him. Laurent has always loved having his hand in Larry's fro and now Larry will have the pleasure of doing the same more often. Now that they're finally dressed they decide to go check on Emma and mama. The instant they arrive at Emma's room they smile at how beautiful she looks in her evening gown. Her long curls are hanging ever so gracefully down her back though there's a small portion pulled back and secured with a matching color bow. Her floor length ball gown equipped with a bowknot on the back is so fitting for the beautiful princess she is...

She looks absolutely perfect and when she sees her papas her face lights up. She can't run to them as she normally would because of how full the gown is so she walks over and they squat down to her level once she's in front of them...

Laurent: *smile* "You look beautiful my love". 

Larry: *smile* "Yes you do baby. You look very beautiful". 

Emma is smiling brightly and beautifully as she adorably swings left to right allowing the dress to flow as she replies...

Emma: *smile* "Thank you papas! I love this dress"! 

Laurent: *smile* "It's a princess dress...for a very beautiful princess". 

Emma begins to wrap her arms around him for a hug and he kisses her cheek before sweetly grasping her in his arms. She gives Larry a big hug too then they raise up and put their focus on mama who's adorned in a glowing floor length chiffon evening gown with an intricate design pattern which is simply beautiful on her... 

Larry: "Mama. Wow. You look so beautiful". 

Laurent: "Wow is right. You look stunning mama". 

Mama: *smile* "Thank you my loves". 

Mama glances at their attire from head to toe. They're adorned in tuxedos which are paired with a navy blue jacket and she compliments them on their looks as well. What really makes her smile is seeing her little one dressed just like his papas...

Mama: *smile* "You all look amazing". 

Larry and Laurent: *smile* "Thank you". 

Mama: *smile* "Welcome". *pause* "Well. I think we're ready". 

Laurent: *smile* "Yes ma'am". 

Mama winks as she picks up the matching clutch to her gorgeous ensemble. Laurent escorts her to the car while Larry carries Ayden and holds Emma's hand. Once mama is inside and the kids are also buckled in Laurent gets behind the wheel while Larry gets in the back then it's off in the direction of the university...

*****

As the primary guests of tonight's banquet they're given valet service so once they're out of the car an attendant takes off to park while they all walk inside. The university has always been splendid from the beautiful architecture of the buildings to the meticulously landscaped grounds and the inside is decorated for the special event though it doesn't need much as the building has beautiful hard wood floors, gorgeous statues and the most splendid decorum throughout. The evening will start with a formal dinner but it's currently a cocktail hour where guests are being served appetizers and cocktails. The Bourgeois family is also given the main table...but before they get to it they see a familiar face. It's detective Brunet and he looks different as he's not equipped with his gun and badge. He's also dressed in a tuxedo and when he sees them he smiles as he begins to walk over...

Laurent: *smile* "Hi detective. Thanks so much for coming". 

Brunet: *smile* "You're welcome. Thank you for the invitation". 

Laurent: "Welcome. You remember mama". 

Brunet: "Yes of course and you look beautiful".  

Mama: *smile* "Thank you, and you look very handsome".  

Brunet: *smile* "My pleasure, and thank you". 

Though the detective has been at the Bourgeois home several times as he worked on the case he never officially met the babies since mama always took them away as they didn't need to hear the details...but there couldn't be a more perfect time for their babies to meet the man who helped this family so much. Larry introduces Ayden and the detective being a natural with kids as he has a few of his own sweetly speaks to him. He practically melts when he sees that smile with those tiny bottom teeth. Then Laurent bends down to Emma's level...

Laurent: "Princess, there's someone we would like you to meet. This is Mr. Brunet. The very nice man who helped Kaylee by finding the person who hurt her and making sure it can't happen to anyone else". *pause* "Detective, this is Emma". 

The detective squats down and looks directly at her...

Brunet: *smile* "Hello Emma. It's very nice to meet you". 

Emma: *smile* "It's nice to meet you! You helped my sister"?!

Brunet: *chuckles* "Yes I did". 

Without another word Emma wraps her arms around him for a hug. The detective's heart drops at such a sweet gesture and he smiles as he hugs her back. Larry, Laurent and mama are looking down at the adorable scene with smiles. Emma has always been a sweet and affectionate little girl so it isn't a surprise that she's hugging him as she now knows that he was an instrumental person in her sister's case. When they release the detective looks up and sees everyone smiling and in this very moment he feels even prouder to know this family. He stands up and his eyes scan all of their smiling faces. Laurent then suggests that they all go to their table since dinner will be served soon and on the way he playfully says to the detective... 

Laurent: *smile* "I think she likes you". 

Brunet: *chuckles* "I think so". *pause* "You have a beautiful family, Dr. Bourgeois". 

Laurent: *smile* "Thank you, but you can call me Laurent. We're friends now". 

Brunet: *smile* "Yes we are so you can call me Kenneth".

Larry and mama hear the conversation and they couldn't agree more so they smile beautifully as they each reply... 

Larry: "You can call me Larry". 

Mama: "You can call me mama just like my boys and I won't have it any other way". 

Brunet: *smile* "Yes ma'am". 

Brunet then looks over at Larry who's still smiling brightly and he extends his fist for a pound. He then looks at Laurent and they do the same. Mama gives him one of her warm, motherly hugs and when they release he looks down at sweet little Emma who's looking up at their exchange while smiling sweetly. He can't help but feel an overwhelming amount of love from the Bourgeois family and he's looking forward to having them become a part of his family as well... 

They arrive at the head table and Laurent sits next to his love while Emma sits between him and the detective. Service begins with baskets of freshly baked bread and there's a plethora of entrees from filet mignon to chicken, fish and even vegetarian options. They all sound delicious so it's hard to choose but they eventually make their selections. While they wait they smile at Emma and the detective who are making each other smile and laugh. It's as if he's been a part of them for far longer and it warms their hearts to see him engage with her so sweetly. They take their eyes off of them for a moment to look around. The ceremony hasn't started but already they're very pleased with how well the evening is going. Laurent spots a few colleagues so he excuses himself to go and speak to them. Larry watches him and his heart smiles at seeing his love smiling at each of them as they converse. He can tell they're welcoming him back but they're also offering condolences as evident by a certain look on his face because he's thinking of Kaylee. But, Laurent appreciates it all and knowing the reason they're all here tonight is enough to lift his spirits. He comes back to the table and Larry leans over to speak softly to him...

Larry: *smile* "I love seeing you smile so much baby". 

Laurent: *smile* "Thank you my love. It feels good knowing I'm coming back. It makes me happy". 

Larry: *smile* "I'm happy that you're happy", he whispers. 

Laurent smiles and winks at him before they lock hands under the table then give each other a gentle squeeze. The food arrives and the swirl of smoke into the air from each entree is indicative that each of these meals are being served at the perfect temperature. The detective offers to say a prayer before they partake in their meal which they all gladly allow then afterwards they dig right in. The food is as delicious as it looks and they enjoy every savory bite among conversation. When dinner is over there's an announcement that kindly prompts everyone to head over to the theater which is only a short walking distance away. Just as they were given a head table they're also given the front row and this is the moment they've all been anticipating. On stage sits Dr. Bouchet and the president of the university is seated next to him. The podium is at the foot of the stage and behind it is a large screen that will play the dedication video on cue. Larry and Laurent feel their stomachs flutter because in only moments footage of their beautiful girl will be on that screen. Instinctively they reach out for each other's hand to hold and look at each other. They have the same look in their eyes because although it will be beautiful they've still had to prepare for the heavy emotions that will come with seeing her...but their comfort to each other will make the grief bearable. Now there's a voice on the microphone so they turn their heads. The president, Dr. Simon, is starting the ceremony...

Simon: "Good evening, and thank you all for attending the very special launch of the Kaylee Bourgeois Performing Arts Scholarship. Her parents, Dr. and Mr. Bourgeois, are present as well as her lovely grandmere and two siblings". *looks at the family* "We would like you all to know that we are more than honored to present this scholarship in Kaylee's name. With its implementation, the memory of her will remain alive". 

A resounding applause erupts from the audience and they feel themselves becoming emotional already by the touching and well spoken opening speech as well as the outpouring of support surrounding them. The opening is very beautiful so Larry and mama can only imagine what's in store for the remainder. Laurent having a hand in putting this together knows the order of events of course and the next part of Dr. Simon's opening speech is a mention of what happened to Kaylee...

Simon: "As we are all aware, Kaylee Bourgeois was abducted and her life was senselessly taken at the tender age of 7. Detective Brunet, who is also in attendance with the family and who worked tirelessly on the case, is credited for finding the culprit. He has since been found guilty of the crime and sentenced so we thank you, detective, for your dedication and determination. It is in large part because of you that Kaylee has received justice". 

Another round of applause sounds off and the detective smiles as he nods at Dr. Simon. He looks to his right to see his new family smiling as they clap along and he feels all the more blessed to be a part of such a special occasion. When the clapping begins to settle their focus goes back to Dr. Simon who now has some beautiful words to share about Laurent...

Simon: "I've had the pleasure of knowing Dr. Bourgeois for years and he's been a stellar math professor since his inception. When discussing this ceremony I saw the look on his face as he talked about Kaylee so he's not only brilliant, it's also very easy to see that he's a dedicated and very loving father". *looks at Larry* "We know that Dr. Bourgeois is who he is because he has you standing next to him everyday encouraging and supporting him". *looks at mama* "Mama B, the matriarch of this family. You are loving, kind and always supportive of your family". *looks at Emma* "You are very special too, Emma, and we know that you love your papas as much as they love you. Kaylee was very blessed to have all of you, and you were all blessed to have her. We're here for each of you and we hope that every aspect of this ceremony not only honors Kaylee but is also everything that you wanted and more". *pause* "At this time we will have the presentation of the slideshow accompanied by a special violin rendition of, "I Will Always Love You". 

~please play the audio~

https://youtu.be/Zi4YV11wEnc

Larry and Laurent's grasp on each other's hand becomes tighter and they also gulp in sync as the footage begins. They can already tell that the photographer did a tremendous job just by the way he designed the beginning and titled it, "The Life of Kaylee". The first clip is the day she was brought home and mama recorded the moment they stepped inside. Larry was holding her in his arms with his love directly beside him. She came closer to make sure the camera could get a close up of her and as she whispered how she became even more beautiful since the second she was born Laurent gently caressed her head. She was three days old and how absolutely precious she was all pretty in pink as she slept ever so peacefully. The camera continued rolling as she was taken to the nursery that had been awaiting her arrival ever since they were informed that the adoption was approved. For hours upon hours they decorated that nursery while paying attention to every detail to make sure it was just perfect for her. They knew from the moment they said "I do" that they wanted to start a family right away and Kaylee couldn't have been more perfect as their first born. Larry and Laurent's eyes are on that large screen and their expressions read remembering that day vividly so they smile...but tears have also brimmed their eyes and are just waiting for the opportunity to fall. The images begin to transition from newborn to infant where most of the major milestones occur. There are the early stages of her learning how to crawl where she would plop on her stomach or at times falling to the side as she pushed herself. Her papas were in the background telling her, "it's oki baby" anytime either of those happened encouraging her. Soon those crawling moments where she was merely learning turned into her mastering it and she was crawling so fast it became hard to keep up with her. There's also a special clip of Larry coming home from work and when Kaylee saw him she smiled brightly and began cackling as she hurriedly crawled to him. Laurent had never been so fast picking up his phone to take the video of it. Her best moments as a baby were captured beautifully. It's like going down memory lane as they watch and moments such as these wouldn't be complete without recording her learning how to walk. She always stumbled adorably and she smiled beautifully as one of her papas held their arms out. The day she officially took those first steps Laurent's smile is heard in his voice as he told her, "come to papa bebe. You can do it" while Larry smiled as he caught it all on camera and they both squealed when she finally let go of the couch to take those first steps all on her own. The images then transition to being in her high chair feeding herself with food all over her mouth which erupted laughter. Pictures of her with Larry and Laurent as they smiled like the proud papas they are made for a resounding, "aww" from everyone. Slowly but surely images of her as a precocious two year old graced the screen where she drove her princess car, played make believe and played with her dolls. She was around the age of three when Emma was adopted and bringing her home was also captured. They wanted to hear from Kaylee how it felt being a big sister. They remember that conversation as if it were yesterday and when Larry asked her what her new baby sister's name is Kaylee sweetly replied, "Emma". Her answer to his next question was completely unexpected yet it truly melted their hearts. He asked, "you love your baby sister very much don't you" and she replied, "Yeah. She's my best friend". Silence fell after she said that as they were too choked up to say anything being so beautifully overwhelmed that at only the age of three Kaylee knew what a best friend was and proud to say that her baby sister was hers. Their hearts flutter now just as they did then and they take their eyes off the screen for a moment to look at Emma whose glossy yet gorgeous little eyes are gazing up at that screen as she watches Kaylee. This was the first time Emma heard Kaylee say she was her best friend and the look on her face is as if she could cry now. The tears that had been on the brim of Larry and Laurent's eyes since the beginning can't help but fall now as Emma is seemingly missing her big sister more than anyone. They eventually put their focus back on their angel and the more images that go by the more overwhelmed they all become...especially those of Kaylee with Ayden. They always said that from the moment he laid eyes on her he knew she was special. He was always so taken by her presence as if he knew she was his big sister and someone to look up to. Out of his peripheral Larry sees mama taking some tissue out of her clutch to dab her eyes so Larry extends his hand to take a hold of hers and give it a light squeeze. Mama has adorable nicknames for all of them and Kaylee was always her little sunshine because her smile was the epitome of it. She was always the happiest child. Her laughter was always the sweetest sound and there was never a time it didn't echo beautifully all around. She was always willing to lend a helping hand and it was always so easy making friends because she had such a beautiful spirit. Mama has to release her hand from Larry's to give him and his love tissue to wipe their own tears. Now there are images up to before she was taken from them which is indicative of the slideshow coming to an end. Dr. Simon stated that he hopes that this ceremony not only honors Kaylee but that it's everything they wanted for her...and it truly was. Her most precious moments were combined into an absolute beautiful presentation and the title of it is perfectly fitting. As the screen fades to black the audience erupts in applause and several of them have tears of their own as it really was the most touching thing anyone could lay their eyes on...

~song should be done now~

Dr. Simon comes back to the podium and requests that the family come on stage as it's now time to officially implement the scholarship. When they stand up they not only hear the applause from the audience but nearly everyone has stood to their feet in honor of them. Mama holds Ayden as Larry picks Emma up and when they're on stage they all stand behind Laurent who's now at the podium. The applause has stopped and they have all taken their seats to listen to his words...but he's so overwhelmed with emotion that he can't begin right away. He then feels a gentle rubbing on his back along with some whispering that it's ok and to take his time. It takes about another minute before he gently clears his throat to begin...

Laurent: "I'm almost at a loss for words". *gulp* "I think we all are". *pause* "We knew this ceremony would be special and to see her bringing joy to all of you through everything presented here tonight shows just what a joy she was. We are very blessed to be her family, and we will always love her". 

The audience claps again as Dr. Simon steps forward to shake his hand and with a crystal clear plaque in his hands he speaks into the mic...

Simon: "Dr. Bourgeois, it is more than an honor to present the Kaylee Bourgeois Performing Arts scholarship and I also present you and your family with this plaque as a keepsake of the coveted award".  

Laurent receives the plaque and afterward he gives Dr. Simon a firm handshake who also shakes Larry's hand then shakes mama's hand too. He's also very sweet to Emma and Ayden before he addresses the crowd for the final time before bringing the ceremony to a close. Every heart of the Bourgeois family is still completely overwhelmed and they couldn't be more grateful for such a special night...

They leave the venue with Brunet following...but before they go their separate ways for now he thanks them again for the invitation in which they all thank him for coming to share in this time with them. He then looks at Emma who's smiling and waving her little hand goodbye at him. He chuckles as he waves at her then looks at Laurent...

Brunet: *smile* "I would really love for all of you to meet my family and for Emma to meet my little girl, Ava". 

Laurent: *smile* "We would love that. Give me a call soon and we can talk for when". 

Brunet: *smile* "Sure thing. Get home safe". 

Laurent: *smile* "Thanks bro. You too". 

They extend their fists for a pound and now that the valet has brought their car the detective takes off for his. On the way home conversation is minimal as they're all still heavily affected by the slideshow. Laurent already has it in his mind to call the photographer and thank him for doing the most amazing job. It's that kind of hard work and attention to detail as the reason he's always called upon whenever it's time for anything special for their babies. They arrive home just as it's normally time to give the kids baths and get them ready for bed. Emma loved her dress so much she didn't want to take it off, which her papas got a nice laugh out of, and they were ultimately able to get her changed into her pajamas. They also change out of their evening clothes into some more comfortable clothing to have a good night's rest. Customarily Larry tends to Ayden while Laurent goes to Emma's room to tuck her in and read her a bedtime story. He's surprised she doesn't fall asleep halfway through since they had such a full night. He wonders if it's because she's still thinking about watching the montage of Kaylee, as they all are, and when he closes the book upon finishing he hears that sweet voice telling him, "Kaylee was my best friend too papa". As he's looking at her his expression morphs into that of his heart melting at her endearing words about her sister but also sad for her too because she's missing her best friend...

Laurent: "Yes she was my love, and your sister knows that too". *pause* "I know you miss her, bebe and I know you will feel sad sometimes but remember what I said. It's oki to feel sad sometimes because you love her so much. She means the world to you just as you meant the world to her and she will continue to watch over us like the angel she is so that means she will always be with us". *pause* "Everywhere we go she's with us".   

Emma: "Yes papa. I remember and if I get really sad you and papa will be here". 

Laurent: "Always bebe", he whispers. 

Emma raises up to give her papa a big hug and he delicately hugs her back then gives her a kiss on the cheek before carefully laying her back against her pillows. He looks down into those sweet eyes as she innocently looks up at him...

Laurent: "I love you princess". 

Emma: "I love you too. Goodnight papa". 

Laurent: "Goodnight my love, and sweet dreams", he replies softly. 

With a grasp on her favorite bear she closes those eyes and within seconds she's sound asleep so Laurent stands up to leave. On the way to the bedroom he notices the door to the nursery half closed but mostly dark inside which means Ayden is already asleep and Larry is waiting for his love to come to bed. He walks into a quiet, moonlit room where his love is waiting under the thick cover. His head turns when he hears Laurent walk in and he watches his every step over to their bed. He doesn't waste a second scooting over to place his head on Laurent's chest the moment he joins him under the covers. Laurent raises his arm to allow him to do so then gently places his hand on Larry's arm to begin an instant caress. For minutes it's just the two of them in silence as Larry relaxes into the gentle touch of his love...but the silence won't go on too long as the ceremony is still on their minds...

Larry: "Tonight was so special for her baby". 

Laurent: "Special just like her", he whispers.  

Silence ensues again briefly as an earlier thought comes back to Laurent that he hadn't mentioned to Larry as he was waiting for this time together...

Laurent: "Bebe, I think we should go somewhere tomorrow. After tonight it's the perfect time to go". 

Larry knows exactly what Laurent is referring to so he raises his head and whispers to his love, "I agree baby" then they come together for a kiss. Larry's head goes back down on his chest and it remains silent until sleep consumes them...

~next day~

Larry and Laurent were pleased to see another sunlit day as they have a special visit planned. At breakfast they revealed what this special visit will be and they were most eager to see Emma's reaction. As they expected she's just as eager because of the way her papas explained it. They're always delicate in their approach and always makes sure she understands. On the way they stopped by a floral shop where Larry, Laurent and mama selected a bouquet of their own special flowers and makes sure Emma picks out the flowers she wants too. They also purchased a single rose for Ayden. Now Laurent is pulling into the cemetery and as the car coasts along they look all around. The grounds are beautifully kept and the tombstones are all different sizes...but the words inscribed on them come from a deep place of love for those buried. They arrive where Kaylee was placed so the car comes to a stop and they all get out carrying their selected floral arrangements. They stop in front of her tombstone and read the words etched on it...

Kaylee Brielle Bourgeois

Beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter and friend

Beloved. There are so many words that can be used to describe Kaylee and beloved is for sure one of them. Laurent wipes away a single tear before he squats down to place his selection of red roses in front of her tombstone. He then places his open hand on it as he whispers, "we just wanted to come and visit you my love". He stands up and Larry is next who also wipes tears from his face then squats down to place his selection of pink roses next to Laurent's. He then whispers, "your ceremony last night was so beautiful baby". He raises up then steps back so mama can come forward. She places down a bouquet of yellow lilies and whispers, "bright yellow flowers for my bright and beautiful sunshine". She steps back and Larry steps up with Ayden who's holding his single rose. Larry smiles at him then sweetly instructs him to put it down and although Ayden is unsure at first he eventually places it with the other flowers. They all give him a soft hand clap as Larry says, "good job baby boy". Lastly is Emma, who chose a beautiful bouquet of peonies and the moment she places them down she sweetly says, "these are for you Kaylee". With every bouquet down they all gaze at the sight and it's a minute before any words are spoken but Laurent eventually speaks up...

Laurent: "You got the justice you deserve my love, and the ceremony for you last night really was beautiful". *pause* "As beautiful as you". *sniff* "We miss you so much. Every day it's more than the last...but we know that you would want us to deal with you not being here the best way we know how and continue to live the way you would want us to". *pause* "Like you always did. Full of life, full of love". *gulp* "We promise you that we will". *sniff* "Before we leave there's a special song we want to sing for you". 

The emotions are so high that it takes he and his love a few minutes before those angelic voices begin to echo the lyrics to the song that will forever make them think of her. The song that she graced the strings of her violin with...and they start with the verse that describes her...

Time stands still

Beauty in all she is

I will be brave

I will not let anything, take away

They get a bit choked up so they have to take another minute before they can proceed...but when they get to a certain part of the song they can no longer hold back and their emotions just pour out...

I have loved you for a thousand years

I'll love you for a thousand more...

With the song finished it's just the sound of their sniffs and they're about to leave...but not without some final words...

Laurent: "We love you bebe". 

Larry: "We love you so much".  

Mama: "Keep flying high, angel". 

Mama looks down at Emma and asks if she wants to say something to her sister. Emma softly nods then looks at the tombstone as that sweet voice says, "you will always be my best friend Kaylee". Mama smiles through her flow of tears as she whispers, "that was beautiful, my sweet girl". Emma replies, "thank you grandmere" and now the time has come for them to leave. They turn around to walk away but they all look back in sync and hold their gaze at the tombstone that's now adorned with most beautiful flowers. They ultimately turn around and walk towards the car and once they're inside Laurent is the last to secure himself with his seat belt. He then asks in a soft voice, "are we ready"? Larry softly replies, "we're ready baby". The car slowly takes off and though it's been a while since they've lived this painful reality it feels as though it's just hitting them...but they remind themselves that although it will be the most difficult thing any of them will ever have to do Kaylee will always be in their hearts as they navigate the road ahead...

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A/N: My amazing followers. "Vanished" has officially concluded. This was the toughest story I've ever written and I know it was tough for all you. If any of you cried, believe me, I did too. The most difficult part for me was their visit at her grave. I just lost it. Although this story is fictional, what happened to Kaylee happens nearly everyday. According to the FBI's national crime information center, there were 85,459 active missing person's records as of December 31, 2018 and 29,758 (34.8%) of juveniles under the age of 18 accounted for those records. I pray that one day these terrible crimes will stop. Thank you all so much for taking this emotional journey with me. I appreciate every one of you. I do have ideas for more work so please stay tuned. Love you guys. ❤️ 

~lestwinsdesire