Missing part 2

The bus stop was a cold dark place Collete came to contemplate the day. Not only by setting but the inner thoughts she had whilst sitting there. This particular night he appeared almost like a vision before passing like a mirage. At first it felt as if he had been sent to drag her beyond the shadow she called life but before she could even stumble to her feet he was gone. Overtaken by intoxication and despair Collete fell to the floor for a quiet nap. Awaking to the new morning brought an intense pain filling her head with ideas and sensations she had learnt to enjoy over the years. Pulling herself to her feet people passed her giving no guidance or time. Men walked past their eyes embedded in her bosom whilst women whispered sharp criticism under their breath, boutique bags stuffed under their arms from their most recent hunt. Children were pulled away by protective guardians leaving Collete in a bubble of emptiness.

Looking back into times filled with happiness would be short lived for I can only tell you the truth. At the age of 11 her parents fought like savage felines, criticising again and again at every opportunity until they became alpha. The problem being there could only be one in command so they went their separate ways her father leaving in the night with only a kiss and a small felt heart cushion.

It wasn't pleasant but not many divorces are. Why else would two people break apart and promising to love their partner unconditionally until death do they part. You can imagine how Collete's disappointment deepened due to the length of time the feud continued. The funeral took place only two weeks later. Collete with her mother by her side sobbed softly. Her mother balling into tissue upon tissue. The dark mahogany coffin lined with fine silk and intricately detailed with silver embellishment, was lowered into the plot. Above it a wreath laden with lillies and ivy all intertwined with blood red roses. Another spelling out 'Dad' made of carnations, the colour determined by Collete. They were a sunny yellow as he was always smiling and it also reminded her of a wollen jumper vest he wore on special occasions such as her birthday or trips to the theatre. Her mother's deterioration was more prolonged...

To be continued...