The brunette entered first, reaching behind her to grab Piper’s hand and draw her inside behind her. Alex guided them confidently through the throngs of people and into the entryway of the parlor to find her aunt.

Alex’s aunt greeted them with arms open and tears falling. She reached Alex first, “Oh Allie! I’m glad you’re here now. Thank you for taking care of everything at the church. How did it go?”

Alex responded stiffly to hug, “Fine…everything’s in order.” She released herself from her aunt’s grip and motioned towards the lobby area, “I’m glad to see so many people showed up.”

Alex’s aunt patted her shoulder then turned her attention to Piper, “And you must be Allie’s friend.”

Piper cleared her throat and extended her hand in greeting, “Piper…Piper Chapman. Pleased to meet you, although I wish it were under different circumstances. I am so sorry for you loss.”

Alex’s aunt shook Piper’s hand conservatively, “Thank you, dear. I’m Susan. I’m glad that Allie has someone to lean on. Oh there’s Father Kaplan, would you mind if I borrowed her for just a moment?”

Piper smiled, “Not at all.”

Alex turned to the blonde, “I’ll be right back. I guess I need to go greet the priest so we can get this over with.”

Piper rubbed Alex’s upper arm in gentle support, “Go ahead. I’ll be right here when you’re done.”

A few minutes later, Alex returned and explained that they were about to start the ceremony. The priest was going to lead the services with prayer. Then, the family would be able to offer eulogies, which were to be followed by a procession of visitors who would show their respects to the family and the deceased.

The casket was open and had been placed near the far end of the room. This is where Alex led them as they waited for the services to begin. As soon as they had taken their seats, Piper turned to the brunette, “Al, honey…do you want to go up there before everything starts so you can see your mom?”

The brunette shook her head, “Can we…can we just wait until it’s over? I’d kind of like a moment alone with her.”

Piper took the taller woman’s hand, “Of course, we can do whatever you like.”