Page 16 of Unsteady in Love

I’m friends with the guys in my squad. Luckily, we all get along, but we don’t really talk about deep stuff much. Sometimes there are occasions that require it, but normally we try to keep it on the light side for obvious reasons. There are a couple of guys who will always be my brothers though. We’ve been through some shit, and it has created a bond that can’t be broken. We’re family and nothing can change that. On our downtime, we play video games, poker, read, and sleep. Mostly we sleep to catch up on all the hours we miss while we’re out.

Thank you for writing me back. It was the first time I’ve smiled since I got here. It feels like I’ve got a little bit of you back. Please don’t let that scare you off. Right now, you’re the only bright light in my otherwise dark world.

All the Best,

Holden

* * *

To:[email protected]

From:[email protected]

Subject: Don’t tell me not to worry

Date: March 12, 2018 9:08 am

Holden,

I wish the world knew how difficult it is over there and how much all of you sacrifice for our country. You tell me not to worry, but I can’t help it. I know it might not seem like it, but I do care for you. I always have and there’s nothing that can stop me.

Even if you’re safe, which it doesn’t sound as if you are, you seem to be in a very dark place. Did something happen? You used to be so easy going and upbeat, and now, I hate to say it, but that seems to be gone. If you can’t tell me, I understand. I know there’s lots you can’t say.

I think I might have found a house. I love it, but it’s way too big for me. I know you said I could buy anything, but it feels silly when it’s just me. So, I’m thinking about getting a dog. I’ve been so lonely without my dad. I don’t know what to do with myself. Alex has been busy with her new house, her son, and work. She works like crazy even now when she doesn’t have to. Right now, she’s in LA visiting Luke, and when he moves here in a couple of months, I doubt I’ll see her much. I understand, though, since she’s gone so long without much time with him.

Seeing her in love makes my heart happy and gives me hope that one day I can have that too. I probably shouldn’t be telling you this, but we’re friends, right? That’s what we’ve been working toward. I thought it would take longer for me, but damn you, Holden, you’ve worked your way under my skin. I hope that you didn’t make me worry about you because you knew it would soften my heart to you. But even writing that, I know you didn’t.

No matter what, if you need me, I’m here for you.

Prue

* * *

To:[email protected]

From:[email protected]

Subject: Buy It!

Date: March 13, 2018 1:08 am

Prue,

I don’t care how big the house is. Even if it has thirty bedrooms. Buy it! You can always fill them up with puppies and children. Hopefully, my children. Yeah, I went there, and I’m sorry if you’re not ready to hear it, but you are ‘my one.’ You’re it for me. I’ve known since the moment I saw you in the school parking lot. I know that it doesn’t seem like it when I up and left you, but I was a stupid kid who was trying to do right by you. I had to tell you when you mentioned about hoping to find love after seeing your friend in love. I’m hoping that you can love me again and give me a chance.

I know I’ve already pushed too much as it is, but do you think we can get to the point where we can Skype? Do you have an account? I would love to be able to hear your voice and see your beautiful face. Think about it.

I’ve got to go, and it will be at least a couple of days before I can get back to you. Since I’ve never written anyone while here, I didn’t think about it, but I wanted to let you know that sometimes we’re in a blackout and can’t send or receive any type of communication. So, if it takes a while to hear from me that’s why.

All the Best,

Holden

11

PRUE

To:[email protected]