I walked out to see Angie's sister and mother waiting for me. Mom launched herself into my arms and sobbed while Gail held back. I needed to have a private conversation with her soon. I consoled her, not crying, putting it off to numbness. But after discovering her cheating, I found I had no feelings for Angie, not anymore.
We rode to the funeral home and I let Mom pick out the coffin and the flowers, telling them we'd call when they collect the body. The casket would be closed because there would be nothing to view except for a charred piece of meat. They wouldn't be able to embalm her and the director got me to the side and explained they would be keeping her frozen until right before the service and especially seal the casket due to possible smell. I nodded, signed what I needed to sign, and left. I had a friend in real estate and she found me a little garage apartment that would suit my needs.
I'd still work out of the farm, none of the buildings burned. They put the car fire as caused by the heat of the house. The SUV had the paint scorched off the entire front end, so it was a reasonable assumption. We had the funeral on Sunday and there was a large turnout. I played the numb grieving widower as they lowered her into her grave.
Monday I called my insurance agent and got some bad news and a little good news. I can't release the money for the house because it's still a crime scene. As soon as it clears, we'll start the paperwork. What we can do is release the life insurance. Her cause of death has been determined and you'll have the check by the end of the week.
I think once the paperwork is over, we can cut you a check for the property. I'm really sorry about Angie, John. Any idea what happened? He answered. Thanks, Fred.
It's still an ongoing investigation and I've been told not to discuss it. Call me when the money can be released, I replied. Then I went to see Gail. I looked her in the eye. Tell me the truth, Gail.
Angie's gone and you don't have to protect her any longer. Did you know? To her credit, she told me the truth. I found out a week before she died, by accident. When I confronted her, we had a strange conversation.