“Your dad was old, taking his government allowance every year. His death is practically a service to the country.”
He laughed heartily.
I could only wait to see if he would still laugh so freely when he learned the truth.
This fire accident was already drawing media attention. Reporters were camped outside the Fire Department.
With a cold smile, I replied,
“The victim’s son has already agreed to call this an accident.”
Then I played the video right on the spot.
The reporters were stunned.
Before they could ask further, Michael yanked me into his office.
“The department wants to promote fire safety. We’ll use your dad’s remains for display.”
“No!”
My refusal was immediate.
Robert had treated me well while he was alive; I wanted to preserve what dignity I could for him in death.
Sophie eagerly chimed in,
“Sister-in-law, you don’t want more people to die in fires, do you?”
“One man’s death can warn thousands. Uncle Robert’s sacrifice wasn’t in vain. Right, Captain?”
Michael clapped with a smile, not a hint of guilt on his face.
When I stayed silent, he pressed on, speaking earnestly:
“The man is gone. Burned down, he’s just ashes.”
“No different from a stray cat or dog. Don’t be so stubborn.”