Page 69 of Forever Fickle

Pulling out his phone, he called Karen quickly, waiting to be one of the last to take his seat and enter the plane – just to hear her voice.

“Jace?”

He heard her sweet accent and felt his knees go weak as tears stung his eyes. Having a cell phone was apparently the best thing ever and he’d missed out on utilizing one for eons now because it just didn’t make sense to have it in Ghazni because of the reception, but this digital photo album was worth it’s weight in gold right there… and hearing Karen’s voice.

“Hey Tink…” he began thickly. “I’m getting ready to board the final plane in London and I just wanted to call and tell you that ‘I love you’…”

“I love you, too,” she whispered – and he knew that she was scared to say it, realizing now that she was afraid he’d find someone else during their time apart. It would take time for them to learn to trust this feeling growing between them… and time they had plenty of in the very near future.

“I don’t know if I can call from Ghazni, but I will email you,” Jace began. “I’m already working on an email because you are all I can think about. Just be strong for me and let’s start making plans for Thanksgiving. Okay?”

“I’m already looking at flights.”

“That’s my girl.”

“I miss your smile,” she admitted quietly.

“I miss yours,” he replied and then grinned, “And the way you bury that little nose in my armpit when I’m holding you. It tickles but I love that you nuzzle me in your sleep…”

“Oh gosh…” she chuckled, sounding embarrassed.

“It’s the best thing ever,” he smiled tearfully, glancing up to see that the seating at the gate was almost empty. He held up a hand, walking towards the gate to start boarding so he didn’t get left behind.

“I’ve gotta go, Tink. I love you dearly.”

“Be safe, Jace… and write when you can.”

“Will do.”

Ending the call, he was grateful just to hear Karen’s voice one more time before he made it to Afghanistan – and back to the team.

CHAPTER20

* * *

My beloved Tinkerbell,

I just got to the base and I’m exhausted. I’ve already checked in and getting ready to fall into my bunk to get a few hours of sleep before my first briefing tomorrow. I replayed our video… and I’m so relieved to see you there, in my arms, because it feels like a beautiful dream.

I feel so blessed meeting you and cherish every single moment that we got to spend together.

Love always,

Jace

* * *

My Jace,

I never really thought I would ever need a pet name or something for an email introduction, but after seeing your email and starting this one? I realized it’s lacking. I’m going to have to think of something clever, tender, and something that is soooo you!

I watched our video last night too – and realized that I can see so much in your expression. It helps so much. Thank you for switching it from photo to video. It means the world to me.

After dropping you off at the airport, I went straight to Flyboys because I hated to be at home alone without you… and I thought it would make you feel better to know that they (the team) were all waiting for me.

Alpo, Thumper, Armadillo… and even Valkyrie, were there – giving me the pep talk about what you are going through and how to help during this time. So, I mailed you a care package today.

I also found out I’m not alone out here either – did you know Reaper’s wife is here, while he’s there? I’m going to drop by and say hello one afternoon to see if she wants to have coffee or something. I’ve talked to her once, but she wasn’t very happy at the time, coming straight from a funeral.

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