Page 2 of A Man in Uniform

Dear Wyatt,

I hope you made it safely. I saw on the news that things were getting more dangerous. I tried to call you a few times, but you didn't answer. I know we said we'd write, because we want a love story to tell our children one day. But I'm afraid for you, I just need to hear your voice. Even if it's just once.

My father called you a hero. A hero, can you believe that? The same man who once told me you were a no good bad boy. And yes, he actually used the word hero. My mother sends her love, and she promises to make you her famous apple pie when you get home.

I can't believe we need to do this for three years. It's insane, it hasn't even been a week yet and I already miss you like crazy. I should hear something soon about my application to RISD, fingers crossed they accept me. Like you said, if it's meant to happen, it will.

Stay safe, I love you.

—Story

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Dear Wyatt,

I got good news! I got accepted to RISD! You were right, you were totally right. They loved my painting of the water fires. I start in September, and I'm so excited.

Thank you for encouraging me to go for it. I couldn't have done it without you. You're the one who pushed me to keep trying, even when I thought it would never happen. Thank you for that.

Do you realize it's been two months since you left now. A full sixty days, that's crazy!

I hope you're getting my letters. I thought I'd hear something from you by now, but my dad says sometimes it takes weeks for you guys to get mail.

I can't watch the news anymore. Every time I see something about the war, I have to turn it off. I can't stand to watch it, all I think about is you, and wondering if you're okay. These awful thoughts run through my head and it makes me want to cry.

I don't know what I'd do if I lost you forever. I need you. We promised each other forever. Come home to me, Wyatt Saint. You're strong, and I'm trying my best to be strong for you.

I love you and I miss you, and I hope to hear from you soon.

Stay safe, I love you.

—Story

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Dear Wyatt,

We're four months in. Four months in, and still you haven't written to me. Are you okay? Are you getting my letters? I tried to call you again, I even sent you some texts, but you still haven't answered me.

Did they take your phone? Can you use one of theirs? I know families can communicate by video and the internet. So please, please Wyatt, let me know you're alright. I don't care how you do it. Just let me know. This is killing me inside.

I thought about all the things I wanted to say to you, I even thought about how I would yell and scream so you knew how upset I really am. But I can't. I miss you too damn much.

School starts in a week. Between that and you being out there, my nerves are shot. I'm trying though, I really am. We made a promise to each other, and I'm not going anywhere.

I won't abandon you like this. I love you, and I love that you want to serve our country. My father says it takes a real man to put on that uniform and stand up for what's right.

I've never seen him so proud of you before. He talks about you like you're one of his own. It's nice. It's like you found a place in his world. For the first time ever, you're right for his daughter.

I never thought I'd say that. I never thought I'd see the day my father fully accepted you with open arms. But he does. And it's because you're doing something so selfless.

You really are a hero Wyatt, to more people than just me.

Stay safe, I love you.

—Story

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