The Open Casket

Richard was looking forward to the funeral. There was a light to his step, as he entered the church. People were already seated, crying softly. Richard sat in the back. Richard was surprised to see this many people.

He didn’t think that many people cared about the man who passed away.

Richard wanted to stand up and yell at everyone that no one knew who this man really was. That he was a selfish piece of shit that only cared about himself. Richard fidgeted with his tie, trying his best to remain quiet.

The last thing he wanted to do was make a scene, and make himself the crazy one in their eyes. He was going to wait until everyone eventually left.

Richard waited until the family was done saying their goodbyes and sharing heartfelt tears over the man.

Richard gagged as a young girl that resembled the man was telling random family members about how much she loved her father.

That he was a good man, and he always promised her that he would keep her safe for the rest of her life. She rubbed at her eyes, and said:

“I couldn’t stop crying when I saw it. I didn’t — I wish I could tell my dad thank you. But at least…I know he can hear me. I wish I could trade what my father gave me…for him to come back; but I know that’s not possible. God, what I wouldn’t give to hold my father one last time…”

The girl started outright sobbing as the family members comforted her. Richard covered his mouth to stifle his laughter.

Good man? Your father was a fucking joke, sweetheart.

It was agony for Richard until the end of the service. Once every single person left, including the crying girl that Richard was tired of hearing; he felt pure relief.

Richard finally had the casket all to himself.

He stood up from his seat and walked straight to the man in the casket. Richard studied his still frame. He didn’t want to admit it, but the man looked dapper in his suit. Much better in Richard’s own attire.

Richard reached up to touch his tie, and then dropped his hand in anger. Even in death, this man was still superior in his victory over Richard.

“Are you happy, Tommy? You fucking bastard. I wish you never had your heart attack. I wanted to be the one to kill you myself.”

Richard leaned toward Tom’s face.

“You selfish piece of shit. You couldn’t even give me that. Well, I’m glad you’re dead! Serves you right for taking what was mine!”

Tom’s hand shot out and grabbed Richard’s tie. Tom brought Richard closer to his face, to whisper in his ear. Richard was too shocked to fight back.

What came out was a raspy whisper:

“My daughter wanted to go to college. I took your money to help my little girl. I asked you many times, but you always said no. You are the selfish piece of shit.”

Richard screamed. He desperately tried to free his tie from Tom’s grip, but it was like fighting with a bull. Richard undid his tie, and fell back onto the floor. Tom leaned over to address Richard; a grin on his face.

“You fucking bastard.”

Richard screamed again and ran out of the church. Random people watched Richard in confusion as he continued to run in terror in public.

A stranger who worked in the church was startled by Richard’s sudden reaction. He studied Tom’s body.

In one of his hands was a single tie.

Thank you for reading!

Emy Quinn