Vil Of Sorrow: contos, #1

By Ricardo Almeida

"Drenched in the poignant atmosphere of loss and accusation, 'Better If I Died' unfolds the heart-wrenching tale of Miranda, a young widow standing on the periphery of grief, estranged from the mournful crowd by her own in-laws. As she faces the accusatory gaze of her mother-in-law, Ms. Julia, the unfolding tragedy takes unexpected turns. Amidst the sorrow and whispers of blame, Miranda grapples with the weight of her unborn child, a silent witness to the unfolding drama.

In a cinematic narrative, the story unravels at the cemetery, where Ms. Julia transforms into a grieving queen on a grand stage, manipulating the narrative of grief. The camera shutters click like gunfire, capturing the tension and scandal that surrounds Miranda. As Michael, Steve's brother, attempts to defend her, the drama escalates, and Miranda must bid a heart-wrenching goodbye to her husband.

The emotional journey intensifies as Miranda decides to leave, facing the harsh judgment and accusations of her mother-in-law. Packed with poignant moments, the narrative explores themes of loss, accusation, and the resilience of the human spirit. Miranda's emotional turmoil is vividly depicted as she seeks solace in the memory of her husband while contemplating an uncertain future.

Amidst the chaos, Michael becomes the lone pillar of support for Miranda, offering a glimmer of hope in the face of despair. As the train departs, leaving behind a tumultuous scene, readers are left on the edge of their seats, wondering about Miranda's fate and the challenges that lie ahead.

'Better If I Died' is a gripping and emotionally charged story that takes readers on a rollercoaster of emotions, exploring the complexities of grief, accusation, and the strength found in unexpected allies. This narrative promises a riveting and immersive experience, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Miranda's tumultuous journey."

• Language: English
• Publisher: Ricardo Almeida
• Release date: Nov 11, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223844044

Book preview

Table of Contents

Vil Of Sorrow (contos, #1)

Better If I Died Miranda thought for the Upteenth time, standing

aside from the mournful people in black, near the coffin with her husband Steve's body.

She wanted to get closer, have one last look at him, say, Goodbye, but she was constantly

pushed away, jostled by others, who believed they had more right to be there than she did.

And she, well, she was unnecessary, unwanted, and displeasing.

At the heart of this unfolding tragedy was her mother-in-law, the majestic Ms. Julia,

immersed in her maternal grief.

People approached her, hugged her, offered words of comfort.

She had the right to shed tears and exclaim with genuine suffering, seasoned with inevitable

theatrical drama.

Here, she was an actress too.

An aged pre-medana, cast in the role of a grieving queen, but still magnificent and recognizable.

The cemetery was her stage now, and Ms. Julia was skillfully playing that part.

Worse can't be.

A new thought emerged in Miranda's foggy mind.

As the young widow watched people bustling about, listening to sobs, the clicks of cameras,

and the presence of journalists who had somehow snuck in, she felt only one thing, the presence

of her and Steve's child, stirring in her womb.

A child who would never see their father.

And how was she supposed to go on now?

She was wrong.

Things could indeed get worse.

Having indulged in the universal recognition of her own sorrow, her mother-in-law turned

her eagle eyes on the slender figure in black.

You.

Her voice cracked into a screech with something birdlike in it.

Probably how harpy scream.

It's all your fault.

Wretch.

You killed my Steve.

Silence fell.

People turned their heads towards Miranda, who shrunk, trying to become even smaller.

Which, her mother-in-law continued to expose her.

It's all your fault.

You poisoned my dear boy with your vile potions.

Look, he's in the coffin.

Admire.

But you won't enjoy it for long.

You miscalculated, you wretch.

Don't count on any inheritance, your feet won't step into our house.

Do you hear me?

Leave.

Today.

The camera shutters clicked like gunfire, eagerly capturing the impending scandal.

Dozens of eyes looked at the girl with condemnation.

Some were even gloating.

What have I done to all of them?

Why do they hate me so?

What for?

Miranda felt tears welling up in her eyes.

In the midst of complete silence, a voice filled with hatred spoke up.

It was Michael, Steve's brother.

He had always sympathized with Miranda, often coming to her defense when her mother-in-law

relentlessly tormented the poor bride.

Now, he was the only one to speak up in her defense, but it wouldn't change anything.

Do not dare to defend the snake, the mother-in-law raised her voice.

The investigation will figure it out.

Mom, what investigation?

Michael tried to reason with his mother.

The doctor said it clearly, it was a heart attack.

Miranda is not to blame.

A mother's heart can't be deceived.

I know she's a witch.

That was it.

There was only one thing left to do, say, goodbye.

Miranda took a deep breath and counted to ten, trying to calm her wildly pounding heart.

Without lowering her gaze, she walked towards the coffin, right into the dispersing crowd.

Malicious whispers could be heard from behind, but no one dared to stop her.

Her husband's face was very pale, and he seemed smaller, as if withered.

He was not the same anymore.

The athletic, cheerful guy, the soul of his faculty, the enviable groom who proposed

to her two years ago, making all potential brides wonder, why did Steve, the recognized

heir, son of a famous actress, choose the modest and simple Miranda?

Only she knew the right answer, because he was never an heir, he only wanted the simplest

and most essential things, love, tenderness, trust, a wife to come home to with a hot

dinner to raise and spoil children together.

But none of that would happen now.

How could this happen, Steve?

Tears streamed down her cheeks like two small rivers, but Miranda didn't even notice.

She leaned over and kissed her husband's forehead, repeating to herself.

This is not him anymore.

Only an empty shell remains, but where is the soul?

Is it standing beside me right now?

Is it looking at me?

Steve, you know I'm not to blame for anything.

How do I live now?

Give me some guidance, my dear.

But the marble face remained indifferent.

There was nothing left for her here, and Miranda turned around, heading towards the exit.

Go.

Go and find your next victim, which, her mother-in-law's voice struck her in the back.

Miranda didn't turn around, she only hunched over even more, trying not to hasten her pace.

Let her say and think what she wants.

It no longer mattered.

From behind, she heard hurried footsteps.

Where are you going?

Michael asked, taking her by the arm.

To gather my things.

Where to go afterward, I haven't decided yet, Miranda replied in an indifferent tone.

Miranda don't overthink it.

Mother is not herself from grief, she'll calm down eventually, Michael