章節 5: Funeral
Three days later, the day of Howard and Irina's funeral arrived. The weather was cloudy, but without rain. There were many people attending this day, all with gloomy expressions. Tony felt a deep, constant ache in his chest as he looked around, recognizing many familiar faces and some notable figures in society at that time.
Paige, his cousin, had rushed back from Switzerland and was crying profusely. She had been very close to Tony, almost like an older sister. He felt a mix of sadness and gratitude when he saw her there.
His uncle Harvey was accompanied by a beautiful red-haired girl. His paternal grandfather, normally a figure of happiness and joy, sat looking down, completely devastated. His maternal grandfather had a closed expression, showing no emotion.
His godfather's family was also present, providing their unconditional support. Among the familiar faces, Tony recognized some illustrious figures. Steve Jobs greeted him and offered his condolences, mentioning that his father always talked a lot about him in his business meetings and how he was the future of technology. Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, Rupert Murdoch and other personalities were also there, each expressing their grief and respect for the loss.
Tony, struggling to maintain his composure, was at his grandfather's side when he decided to greet the people who came to pay their respects. He approached Paige first, wrapping her in a tight hug.
"You didn't need to come, Paige... you're missing class..., I know your classes are important"
Paige gave a sad smile, wiping away her tears.
"Not so important that I can let you suffer alone, Tony... I'll take care of you..."
Harvey approached soon after, greeting them both. He introduced the girl next to him.
"Tony, this is Donna Paulsen... Donna, this is my nephew, Tony..."
Donna, with a serene and compassionate expression, extended her hand.
"I'm sorry for your loss, Tony..."
Tony squeezed her hand, feeling slight comfort in her friendliness. Donna had started working as Harvey's secretary that same year, and her presence seemed to bring some calm to the environment.
Harvey Specter stood in front of the crowd gathered at the funeral. The cloudy sky seemed to reflect the sadness of the moment. He adjusted his jacket and took a deep breath before starting to speak.
"We are here today to honor the memory of two extraordinary people, Howard and Irina Specter. They were not just my family; they were examples of determination and unconditional love."
He paused, letting the words sink into the minds of those present.
"Howard was a visionary. As CEO of AeroXSpace, he not only built a successful company, but also paved the way for the future of space exploration. His testament is not just a thriving company, but a vision of a world where the impossible becomes possible. He always said that the stars were not the limit, they were just the beginning."
Harvey's eyes glistened with tears that he fought to hold back.
"Irina, the Duchess of Physics, as many knew her, was a force of nature. Her passion for science and knowledge was inspiring. Not only did she contribute significantly to the field of physics, but she was also a devoted and loving mother. Her intelligence was surpassed only by his enormous heart."
He looked at Tony, sitting next to his new guardians, Jay and Claire.
"Tony, I know this is extremely difficult for you. Losing your parents at such a young age is a cruelty that no one should have to face. But I want you to know that you have a family here, a support network ready to help you every step of the way." . Your parents loved you more than anything and always talked about how special you were. They believed in you, and we did too."
Harvey paused, taking a deep breath to control the emotion in his voice.
"Howard and Irina left a legacy that goes beyond their professional achievements. They left a mark on all of us who were lucky enough to know them. They taught us about the importance of family, passion and the courage to dream big. It's It is our duty to honor these lessons and continue to live by the values they passed on to us."
He looked out at the crowd, made up of Specter's friends, family and co-workers, including notable figures such as Steve Jobs, Bill Gates and Warren Buffett.
"Let us remember Howard and Irina not with sadness, but with gratitude that we had the opportunity to be part of their lives. May their memories inspire us to be better, to try harder, and to never give up on our dreams. And may we support each other, as they have always supported all of us."
Harvey took a step back, his voice cracking with emotion.
"Howard and Irina, you will always be in our hearts. Rest in peace, knowing you left behind a better world and a son who promises to continue the brilliant legacy you started."
He walked away from the small stage set up, feeling the weight of loss but also a renewed determination to honor Howard and Irina through constant support for Tony.
After Harvey, Paige, her eyes red from crying, stood up and slowly walked to the stage. The gentle wind and cloudy sky seemed to reflect the melancholy of the moment. She looked at the crowd, took a deep breath, and began to speak, her voice soft and shaky but full of determination.
"I'm here today to talk about two incredible people who meant the world to me, the lovely Howard and Irina. They weren't just my uncles; they were my mentors, my best friends, and most of all, my family. Aunt Irina and Uncle Howard always treated me like a daughter, and I'm forever grateful for that."
She paused, struggling to control the emotion that threatened to boil over.
"My uncle was a man of vision, a born leader. Not only did he run AeroXSpace with a steady hand and a brilliant mind, but he also found time to be a wonderful uncle and father. He taught me about Space Engineering and how to never giving up on my dreams, always seeking more and more, always looking at the stars and believing that anything is possible.")
She looked at Irina's coffin, feeling her heart sink.
"Irina, my aunt and friend, was a true inspiration. Her passion for science and learning was contagious. She always encouraged me to be curious, to ask questions, to never accept 'no' as a definitive answer. She showed me that knowledge is a journey, not a destination, and we must always seek more, learn more and be more.")
Paige took a deep breath, her hands shaking slightly.
"But what struck me most about Howard and Irina was the unconditional love they had for Tony. They were incredible parents, always concerned about their son's well-being. And that's what I want to talk about now. Tony, I promised the your parents who would always take care of you. They were everything to you, and I know you miss them deeply. But I want you to know that you will never be alone. I will always be here for you, to support you, guide you and love you like they did. would do.")
She looked at Tony, sitting next to Jay and Claire, and gave him an encouraging smile.
"Howard and Irina, you will always be in our hearts. Your memory will live on through us, through Tony and through all the lives you touched. I promise to honor your legacy and take care of my little brother. I will be by his side in every step of the way, just as you would be.")
Paige took a final pause, her tears falling freely now.
"Rest in peace, dear uncles. Your love and lessons will live on in us forever. And Tony, you will never be alone. Let's move forward together, with the strength and determination our parents taught us."
With that, Paige walked away, wiping away her tears. She returned to her place next to Tony, holding his hand and offering him a reassuring smile as the unconditional support of those present enveloped them.
After Paige returned to her seat, Tony, still processing the deep sadness of the loss, stood up. He knew it was now his turn to speak. He walked slowly to the pulpit, trying to muster the courage to face the moment. The cloudy sky seemed to carry the pain and sadness he felt.
"My parents were the most amazing people in the world. They were brilliant, loving, and always encouraged me to be the best I could be. My dad, Howard, taught me about the importance of always dreaming big and never giving up, no matter however difficult it may be.")
He paused, trying to hold back the tears.
"My mother was a constant source of inspiration. She showed me that knowledge is the key to a better world, and that we should always seek more, learn more and share what we know with others. She had a huge heart and always I put family first."
Tony looked at his parents' coffin, his heart sinking painfully.
"I know I'm just starting my journey without them, but I want to promise here, in front of everyone, that I will honor the legacy they left. I will continue the company that my father built with so much love and dedication. I will strive to make a difference in the world, just as they did. And, above all, I will live by the values they taught me."
He took a deep breath, feeling the force of his words.
"I promise to be strong, I promise to be resilient, and I promise to never forget the lessons passed down to me by my parents. They will always be with me, every step of the way, guiding me and inspiring me to be the best version of myself."
Tony looked at Paige, at Jay, Claire, Phil, and Mitchell, and at all the familiar faces who had come to pay their respects.
"I know I have an incredible support network around me, and I'm grateful for each and every one of you. Thank you for being here today, for honoring my parents' memory, and for supporting me through this difficult time. I know that with the help of you, I will be able to move forward and live up to the legacy that my parents left."
He paused, then continued with renewed determination in his voice.
"I want to take this moment to thank the inspiring people who are here today, like Bill Gates and Steve Jobs. Their work and worldviews have always inspired my father and, now, they also inspire me. As I take over the company, I promise that I will mirror the examples of leadership and innovation that you represent. I want to take AeroXSpace to new heights, exploring new frontiers and expanding the legacy that my father started."
Tony took another deep breath, feeling a rush of emotion.
"Speaking of future investments, I want to mention Warren Buffet. His investment advice and wisdom were always highly valued by my father. I will take these teachings with me and apply the principles he defended, always seeking sustainable growth and positive impact."
He looked at the crowd, his voice now firmer.
"I know I have great challenges ahead, but with the support of all of you and the inspiration that my parents and great leaders like Bill Gates, Steve Jobs and Warren Buffet provide me, I am confident that I can honor my parents' legacy and make a significant difference in the world. Thank you all for being here today. Together, we will overcome this difficult time and continue building a bright future, as my parents always wanted."
With that, Tony took a step back, feeling a mix of sadness and determination. He returned to his place next to Paige, holding her hand tightly as the ceremony continued. He knew it would be tough times, but he also knew he wasn't alone.
After Tony's speech, the memorial service continued with moving speeches and tributes to his parents. Steve Jobs, when taking the floor, spoke with the sincerity that was characteristic of him.
"Anthony, thank you for the beautiful words, I know you have a huge future. Your father would be extremely proud of you. He told me about the computer you and your cousin made out of junk parts. That's really impressive..."
Then he took a deep breath, looking emotional.
"Howard was a visionary, and Irina was a brilliant mind. Two years ago, when Apple was nearly bankrupt and I returned as CEO, Howard helped me with $150 million in exchange for Apple stock. He wanted it to remain confidential, so it was only known that Microsoft gave the money. That was the kind of person he was, always willing to help without expecting recognition..."
Tony felt a pang in his heart, but also a sense of pride in his parents. He thanked Steve Jobs with a silent wave as Bill Gates approached to speak.
"Tony, thank you for your moving words. I know your parents meant a lot to you. And if you ever want a friend, mentor, advice, or even a job, you know where to find me." Bill laughed lightly, trying to lighten the mood.
"Your father and I had some incredible conversations over the course of a few years. I remember a barbecue where we started talking about aerospace engineering. I didn't know much about it, so Howard had the patience to explain every detail to me. That conversation It only ended when Irina came shouting in Russian that the food was ready. She and my wife pulled us to the table, laughing. These are some of the moments I cherish."
Tony smiled, remembering the stories his parents shared about those conversations.
At the end of the funeral, people began to disperse, but Tony remained a little longer at his parents' grave, feeling the enormity of the loss, but also the depth of the love and respect they had inspired in so many people. Paige joined him, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder.
"They will always be with you, Tony... in every step you take... And so will we..."
Tony nodded, feeling a rush of emotions that he knew would take time to process.
Harvey, Donna, Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, Rupert Murdoch and other notables reached out to say goodbye to Tony, each offering words of support. The strength of the community that his parents had built over the years was now at his side, ready to support him.
Finally, as the sun began to set, Tony said goodbye to the place, feeling the weight of the world on his shoulders, but also a renewed determination.
On the same day as the funeral, Tony, the Pritchetts and the Dunphys returned to Los Angeles. Tony decided to spend Christmas with them as Harvey was overworked and Paige, a top student in Switzerland, needed to return to her studies.
Arriving in Los Angeles on December 24th, Tony went straight to the room Jay had made available for him. The room was cozy, but Tony couldn't shake the empty feeling.
Sitting on the bed, Tony reflected on his past life and his new reality. His childhood had been surrounded by love and care, but now he found himself in a different environment. Even though he spent little time with the Pritchetts and the Dunphys, he felt a greater connection with them. It was a livelier, more dynamic environment, which in a way filled the void left by the loss of his parents.
As he organized his clothes and belongings, Tony thought about what he would do in the future. Options passed through his mind in a whirlwind of uncertainty. Should he live with his godfather, who has always been a supportive figure? Or maybe with his uncle Harvey, who despite being busy, always showed affection for him? There was also the possibility of living with his cousin Paige, in another country, starting a new life far from everything he knew until he took over the company.
Tony sighed deeply, feeling the weight of these decisions. He knew he didn't need to decide everything right now, but the uncertainty about the future was stressful. As he was thinking, he heard a soft knock on the door. It was Jay, who walked in with a welcoming smile.
"Hey, Tony... I know these days have been difficult for you. I want you to know that we're here to support you, in whatever decision you make."
Tony smiled slightly.
"Thank you, Godfather... It's been very difficult to think about what to do next..."
Jay walked over and placed a comforting hand on Tony's shoulder.
"Don't rush into deciding everything at once. Take your time.")
Tony nodded, feeling a little calmer. He had the support of the Pritchetts and the Dunphys, and that made all the difference.
In the days that followed, Tony tried to enjoy the Christmas spirit with his new family.
He immersed himself in the house's activities and traditions, trying to find some normalcy amid the pain. Every day, he felt like he was one step closer to discovering what his future held.
It was Christmas Day and all the family members gathered at the Pritchett house to celebrate the holiday. The house was full of joy and laughter, with everyone dressed up as Christmas characters, which added a magical touch to the atmosphere.
Jay was dressed as Santa Claus, a role he played with a mixture of enthusiasm and sarcasm. Dede, his wife, was wearing a Mrs. Claus outfit, completing the pair. Phil, Claire and their children, Haley, Alex and Luke, were all dressed as elves, their colorful outfits and pointy ears making them the perfect helpers for Santa.
Mitchell, always with a quirky sense of humor, chose a Christmas outfit with a reindeer tiara and a clown nose, drawing amused looks from everyone. Tony, who was still adjusting to his new reality, was further away, wearing a scarf, a beanie, and his face painted white with a fake carrot nose, looking like a snowman. He felt out of place, but the family's effort to include him did not go unnoticed.
The party was lively, with Christmas music playing and everyone singing together, creating a cozy atmosphere. Claire, known for her perfectionism, was hysterical trying to organize everything for the family photo, wanting everything to go exactly as she planned.
"Everyone for the family photo! Come on, quickly, before the light changes!"
Dede, always ready to provoke Claire, commented in a mocking tone.
"Calm down, Claire. There's no need to stress so much. It's just a photo."
Claire began to fume, irritated by her mother's attitude.
"Mom, don't start! I just want everything to be perfect. Is that too much to ask?"
The tension between mother and daughter was palpable, but no one wanted to turn the situation into an argument. Everyone began to organize themselves for the photo, trying not to provoke Claire's fury any further. However, Claire noticed that Tony was further away and decided to call him.
"Tony, come here! You're part of the family now, so you have to be in the picture!"
Tony hesitated, trying to move away discreetly, but had no luck. Mitchell and Phil came from behind and took him in their arms.
"Sorry, buddy, but Claire asked. We can't refuse."
"When Claire wants a family photo, she'll have a family photo. Trust me, it's easier that way."
Tony tried to resist, but ended up being taken by both of them. He let out a resigned sigh as he was placed in the middle of the family for the photo. Claire, finally satisfied, smiled and adjusted everyone into their positions.
"Perfect! Now everyone smile!"
The camera went off, capturing the moment of togetherness and joy despite all the small tensions and strong personalities present. Tony, still adjusting, felt a warmth in his chest as he realized that, even in the midst of the chaos, he had another family who cared about him.
After the photo, the songs and laughter continued. Phil started trying to tell jokes, trying to liven up the atmosphere even more.
"Why can't Santa go in the chimney? Because he's claustrophobic!"
The children laughed, infected by Phil's joy. Haley, still in her elf costume, walked over to Tony and tugged on his scarf.
"You look like a real snowman! Want to play with me and Alex?"
Tony smiled, feeling more at ease.
"Sure, Haley. Let's play."
As the children played, Jay watched with a smile. He approached Dede and whispered.
"It's good to see everyone happy. Especially Tony. He's been through so much..."
"Yes, Jay. He's adjusting well. We're here for him."
Meanwhile, Claire continued organizing everything, making sure every detail of the party was perfect. She called everyone to the table, where a Christmas feast was being served. Tony, still thoughtful, sat down next to Jay.
"How are you, boy? I know it's not easy..."
"I'm fine. Just thinking everything changed so fast."
"I know it sounds scary, but you have a family here. We'll help you with whatever you need. You don't have to decide everything right now."
Tony nodded, feeling comforted by Jay's words. After dinner, it was time to exchange gifts. Claire, ever the organizer, began handing out gifts to everyone.
"Here, Tony. This one's for you, from all of us."
Tony opened the gift and found an advanced mechanics and programming book and a unique kit of assembly tool sets. He smiled, excited.
"Thanks, guys. It's perfect."
As the night continued, the stories shared created a welcoming atmosphere.
The end
創作者的想法 
Hitdover
Hitdover Hey guys,
Thank you very much for reading my story! I apologize for the delay in posting, but I'm also working on another Webnovel account. Also, I'm still a little undecided about the couple in the plot.
I was surprised by the increase in views from one chapter to another, we reached more than 50k views and more than 500 collections and that made me very happy!
If you really like it, please leave a comment. If you have suggestions for improvements (I feel like you do), feel free to share. Like so I know if you like it.
I would like to mention that English is not my primary language, so sometimes the translation may not be perfect. Thank you for your patience and understanding!
Hugs and see you soon!
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