The family gathered near the fireplace after the last rites of the matriarch were completed. The preferences she had shown in her less-than-ideal conduct during her lifetime, were evident in the distribution of wealth.
The siblings looked at the remnants of affection melting away in that fire. She had never been fair – in life or death. The embers of hatred glowed in the dark, as each imagined the worst.
She had transferred animosity, along with family assets.
Reena Saxena 
Looks like granny got the last word. Nice job!
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Thanks, Dyanne!
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Sadly I think that is often the case when someone dies that the family become splintered. It sounds as though she did it on purpose though. Good six.
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Thanks, Irene!
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Sad to say that most people died as they lived, whether that’s with love or hatred or many ways in between.
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And are remembered with the same intensity – of hatred, indifference or love.
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“The embers of hatred glowed in the dark, as each imagined the worst.”
Excellent line. Such a tragedy when there’s animosity at a time when many are saddened at the loss of a loved one, and who gather to celebrate that person’s life, not endure the formalities of their passing.
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Thanks!
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It is sad when unhappy people decide to carry that legacy with them too the grave. Why not instead surprise everyone with a turn toward kindness and generosity. I suspect regret is a likely factor in the afterlife.
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there are few certainties in life, that said, ‘relatives-acting-strangely’ upon the passing of one who leaves behind gifts and assets is surely one of the least recognized.
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Bang on!
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Ooh, quite chilling.
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Thanks!
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There are people like this, and i do not understand them. Why not leave behind love instead?
These people are scary.
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Unhappy people leave behimd unhappiness.
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Very real and very chilling.
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Real for sure 🙂
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Yikes!
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Ooh, that is both powerful and chilling!!
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Thanks!
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