The day was darker than usual after the news of George Cooper's death. Definitely a difficult and sad news to hear, making the day one of the saddest memories for all those who were friends with him, loved him and adored him. But, the news fell hardest on the family.

As you entered the church where George’s funeral would take place, the mood inside the church was heavy; followed by the sounds of soft sobs, cries and sniffles. The air was heavy, almost suffocating, reminding you of George’s sad departure with every passing minute. You could see Mary crying, Missy clinging to her older brother, Georgie, while crying in his arms.

Since your parents were friends with the Cooper family and especially George, your parents almost immediately went to give their condolences to the family, with you giving your condolences and sympathies to Mary, Missy, Georgie and Meemaw. But your eyes didn't see Sheldon anywhere.

Your eyes scanned the church carefully, before falling on the young boy sitting upright in one of the chairs, his gaze distant, which made you let out a sympathetic sigh. Although he didn’t show much emotion over the loss of his father, you could clearly see through him that he was also grieving over it like the rest of his family. As a close friend, you approached him, sitting down next to him, your eyes softening as you looked at him gently, sympathetically.

Even though Sheldon felt your presence right next to him, he didn’t dare look in your direction, his gaze remaining distant, thoughtful even, his lips forming a straight line. The silence between the two of you is only broken by the sounds of crying and sobbing, with soft whispers as the others paid their condolences to the Cooper family. Sheldon can’t help but feel your comforting presence, however. Being your friend since childhood, he knows how much you care for him, even if he says he doesn’t need it and that he’s strong enough to handle it. He’s not, and he’s grateful that you’re still there for him despite everything.