Page 67 of Coming Home

“Yeah, we think it’s best. You gave us time with him tonight and we really appreciate it. We’d rather just say goodbye and have a normal day,” Troy said.

“Yup, you two can have the sloppy, tearful goodbye by yourselves,” Will said, rolling his eyes.

“If you change your mind. . .”

“We know, Shelby. We know,” Will said.

They boy hugged Ben again. “We’ll say goodbye before we leave for school.”

“I’ve got a substitute lined up for the day. Go easy on her, please, and don’t forget you’re riding the bus home tomorrow,” I reminded them.

“We’ll be fine, Shelby,” Troy said. “Goodnight.”

Ben and I spent our final night together up late, talking and just holding each other close. I was determined to be strong for him and not let my fears dampen our last moments together.

I woke up exhausted the next morning to make sure the boys ate breakfast and got off to school okay. Ben strolled out at the last minute to say their final goodbyes. Troy had tears in his eyes when he left, but I knew they were going to be okay.

“What time is your flight?” I asked.

“Eleven, so I don’t have much time this morning. I feel like I should stop by the Alpha house and tell Thomas and your parents goodbye.”

I nodded, selfishly wanting to keep him all to myself, but I knew we had other responsibilities, too.

He showered and dressed as I fought the desire to join him. When he stepped out dressed in uniform and carrying his duffle bag, my breath hitched. He looked so sexy in uniform that I was struggling not to rip it off him.

I licked my lips and groaned, making him beam with pride.

He ushered me out quickly, knowing he would miss his flight if I had my way.

When we got to the Alpha house, Mom hugged him close and cried as she said goodbye. We made our rounds through the house, ending with Thomas.

“Thank you for all you’ve done for me and my family,” Ben told Thomas.

My brother hugged him. “Dude, we’re pack, but we’re family, too. There’s nothing within my power I wouldn’t do for you.”

“One favor?” Ben asked.

“Of course, anything.”

He looked down at me. “Check on Shelby and make sure she actually laughs while I’m gone.”

Thomas nodded, and shook Ben’s hand. “I’ll make it my personal mission,” Thomas said evilly.

I groaned and rolled my eyes.

Ben was quiet as I drove him over to the airstrip. We arrived a few minutes before eleven and the plane was ready and waiting.

I blew out a long breath. “Guess it’s time,” I said.

“It’s going to be different this time, sport. I promise you,” he said.

“I know,” I told him honestly. I had no doubt this time would be different. “The boys and I are going to be fine. I don’t want you worrying about us.”

“I’m always going to worry about you. Do me a favor?”

“Anything,” I promised.

“Write me every day,” he surprised me by saying.

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