“When you are in the Army, you see things that are scary. Sometimes people you like get hurt or even die, and it makes you sad. Every day is busy and sometimes dangerous. It’s hard to stop and think. So, sometimes, you just quit thinking because it hurts too much.” He stopped talking and ran his hands over his face and into his hair, leaving his palms covering his eyes. Dylan got up and placed his little hands on Luke’s cheeks, forcing Luke to look at him.

“I forgive you,” he stated firmly.

Luke inhaled sharply and clenched his jaw. “I will prove to you every day that I deserve it.” He promised.

I needed to get out of here before the tears burning behind my eyes spilled over and showed Luke just how much he still affected me. One more word from his lips and I would lose my grip on my tenuous control. Hastily, I stood up. Rocky looked up at me with a doggy groan before hopping to my spot on the swing.

“I have to go. It’s time,” I announced a little too brightly. “We can make plans for you two to get together. Let’s exchange numbers. Dylan has my phone.” Calla started to fuss. I hugged her to my chest and rubbed her back. I was not sure who was comforting whom at this moment.

“Okay, but I would like to talk to you too, Lily,” Luke answered softly.

“Sure, we can make plans to talk soon, but I’m supposed to be at my mom’s house right now for dinner, and I need to put Calla down for a nap.”

Luke took his phone from his pocket and they exchanged numbers.

“Come on, Dylan, let’s go to Grandma’s. They’re probably waiting for us. We’ll get you together with Luke soon. Promise.”

Dylan threw his arms around Luke’s neck. “I’m glad you came home,” Dylan whispered to him, then turned and ran toward the car. I felt my heart break and mend at the same time at the sight.

“I’m glad you’re back too, Luke,” I said and smiled at him before I turned away and headed for my car.

“For the first time since I got back, I’m glad I am here,” I heard him answer.

Luke

I stood rooted in place next to the fire pit, unable to look away as I watched my son hop into the back seat of Lily’s car. I watched as Lily put her baby in the car seat and buckle her in. Her hair was fiery red just like Lily’s. She was tiny and adorably dressed in her little pink pajamas.

That should be my baby.