HIM.
I've been called out.
To serve my country.
But how can I leave her?

I must go.
But she stands there.
In the driveway.
Crying and begging me not to leave.

I look at my rearview mirror.
And begin to cry.
I can't leave her.
I can't let her go.
But I have to.

HER
I cry and beg him not to go.
I stand in the driveway as he leaves.
My heart breaks.
As I scream for him.
My body aches for him.

I can't bear to lose him.
As I lay on our bed,
Clutching his picture,
I hear wheels on our gravel driveway.

Is it him?
Is he coming home?
My heart is pounding.
There is butterflies in my stomach.

HIM
Just one more hug.
Just one more kiss.
Just one more everything.

I run to her and she runs to me.
I tell her I still have to go.
But I just needed to say good bye again.

She cries.
I wipe her tears away.
I will come back. I promise
I tell her.
In hopes I can keep this promise.

HER
He comes back.
I cry and say good bye for a while
He gives me a kiss on the cheek.
I start to cry even harder.

I feel like my heart is breaking.
He said he'd come back.
I'll be here waiting.

I lay on our bed once again.
SEVERAL MONTHS PAST

HIM
It's been months since I've seen her.
I finally get to go home.
I can't wait to see her.
Will I get to?
Will I make it home?

HER
Finally I can see him!
Oh how I can't wait to see him.
But, Will he come home the same?
Will he be walking to me?
Or will he be carried to me?

**TO BE COUNTED