Broken

The torrential downpour enveloped Cassy's anguished wails, drowning out her despairing cries. Her small frame, once radiating determination, now seemed fragile and defeated. The relentless rain soaked through her clothes, mirroring the deluge of grief overwhelming her.

Cassy's eyes, red and puffy, streamed with tears as she berated herself. "It's all my fault! I should have run faster! Maybe then I could have seen Mom, spoken to her one last time!" She slapped her face, as if punishing herself for her perceived shortcomings.

"If only I hadn't slept... If only I had gotten there sooner... Mom waited for me, asked for me, and I wasn't there!" The weight of her guilt crushed her, and her words devolved into heartbreaking sobs.

Tears and mucus mingled on her cheeks, salty reminders of her anguish. The rain, once a calming melody, now seemed to mock her, its rhythmic beat echoing the cruel fate that had torn her mother away.

Cassy's world had imploded, leaving her shattered and lost. The h