SEVENTY-ONE

IT WAS NOVEMBER 20TH AGAIN.

The day The Rodriguez would never forget. The day they had lost Clarissa.

The family had been unable to hold a memorial service for her since her death because they felt it would be a travesty to honor her while her killer walked free. It was too painful to commemorate her life when there was still so much left unresolved. It felt like admitting defeat, like giving up on justice.

But even though they hadn't been able to properly honor her, they had never forgotten her. They still carried her memory in their hearts, and they knew that someday, they would come a year when they'll be proud to give her the memorial she deserved.

As she looked out at the multitude gathered to honor the life of her sister, Evelyn felt a surge of emotion. She had never expected such a turnout and it brought tears of joy, sadness, and a sense of fulfillment.

For a week straight, the words "We're sorry, Clarissa" and "Rest in peace, Clarissa" had been topping th