Page 113 of Forever Fascinating

The wedding photos were completely sweet, loving, and achingly warm… but it was those stolen moments where she saw his tender, playful side that really spoke to her soul.

Just like that first time he’d insisted on taking a silly photo with her, because that was who he was essentially on the inside. He was that goofy man, who craved a chance to laugh with someone who understood and accepted him, doing the things that just weren’t expected and would make others cringe, wondering ‘why’…

There was no ‘why’ – it was just who he was.

Just like the way Matthew was always touching her hand, her arm, or would place his hand on the small of her back. The need to be connected was strong with him, making her realize just how lonely he had been before.

Their wedding night had been much of the same - full of gentle touches, him reaching for her as if he was afraid that she would disappear, or cradling her to his side… even if he was completely asleep, he would reach for her.

These were the stolen moments that she adored, remembered, and would crave over the unknown length of time it would be before she saw his beautiful smile again.

She loved this man dearly… and would wait for him forever.

* * *

Hey Husband-o-mine,

I’m home and decided on the flight back that I’m going to start us a photo album. I’m having all of our photographs printed and getting a few of my favorites in larger sizes to hang on the walls. It’s time that the house started looking like it was ours.

I’m still reeling that you managed to pull off a destination wedding and honeymoon in one, keeping everything a secret. Eloping would have meant it was just us… and I am NOT complaining, just FYI. I’m so touched that we could have our family with us.

… And that my husband is so loving and caring enough to have invited them.

I am going to get my name changed on things this next week to keep myself busy, and start to transition things over. Have I mentioned that I love my new name and the fact that you are mine?

Love you to pieces, Bunt-boy, and always will,

Your wife,

Jana

* * *

Hey Darling,

I just made it back to Ghazni late yesterday and the team is having a field day celebrating and teasing me that I’m now related to your brother – little do they know that I’m the real winner in the big picture. Jace is a good person… but you?

You make me want to move mountains.

Did you know Jace is getting out of the Air Force and moving back to Texas? I guess it’s something he’s been discussing with Karen for a while – or I’ve had my head in the clouds for so long falling in love that I didn’t realize it.

(I’m betting its option two – because I’m crazy about my wife!)

I need to lay low a bit before putting in my request for time off again. Be patient with me.

Reilly’s in a horrific mood.

(Can you imagine that I got in trouble? Shocker!)

I had to run laps for almost an hour this morning, in full uniform, and it was over a hundred degrees here. Turns out that freedom of speech isn’t necessarily free to use whenever you want. I didn’t appreciate something he said regarding marriage and shared my thoughts, calling Reilly a bad name (and being overheard) was a definite no-no.

Hard lesson learned!

So, as soon as the guy stops glaring at me every five seconds – I’m going to request my four days off and plan a trip home.

Gosh, I love saying that word.

I love you, wife,