“Miss Taylor. Harry has personally given me directions to give this to you…” Fitz handed her the bouquet as tears began to well up in her eyes at the gesture. “I will give you some privacy miss.” Fitz closed the door slowly behind him.

  Anna wasn’t expecting anything from Harry. Her heart swelled as tears brimmed over her lids, falling down her cheeks. She sat back down and gently tore away the wrapping relieving a bouquet of sunflowers and forget me nots. Her favourite flowers.

  Anna held the flowers to her nose, breathing in their beautiful scent. Her mind floated back to the first time he gave them to her.  The day of their first date, Harry had left a bouquet of flowers on her desk.

  Anna looked down and a letter had fallen out of the wrapping. She placed the flowers down carefully on the desk and opened the letter.

  Tamale,

I miss you so much babe. I wish I could have been there today to give this to you myself. So since I can’t be there with you tonight. I have arranged something special just for you. Fitz will drive you home today and there is a package waiting for you on your bed with another note.

  -Love Ginger snap xoxo

  Tears were falling down onto the letter as Anna read it. Harry must have arranged this before he was deployed. She had sent him a present for Valentines Day, but was not sure he would get it in time.

  If only Anna could see him, see that he was alright. She would give up whatever was happening tonight for just another couple of minutes with him.

  ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

  Anna opened the door to her flat and dropped everything as she ran into her bedroom excited to see what the ‘package’ was that Harry left for her. Sitting on top of her bed was a couple of boxes with another letter taped on top.

  Anna hurriedly opened the letter, her heart racing as she struggled with the envelope. She tossed aside the envelope, flipping open the letter.

  Tamale,

  Put these on and be ready by 6:30. Fitz will take you to your next destination.

-Harry xoxo

  Anna set down the letter on the bed and opened the bigger package first. Anna gasped as she lifted up a stunning red dress. She ran her hands through it feeling the expensive material between her fingers.

  Anna giggled as she turned around and went to the mirror, holding the dress up over her body. It was so her. It was the type of dress she would have picked out herself.  

  She let out another squeal, as there were two more packages on the bed. The others revealed cream-colored closed toed heels with a matching clutch.  Anna couldn’t believe that Harry had put so much effort into this. It was if he was standing right beside her, as if he was here with her.

  Anna quickly showered and got ready for the evening having no idea where she was going next, but ecstatic for the upcoming unknown night.

  -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

  After a few turns, Anna had a pretty good idea of where they were going. Kensington Palace. The gates opened as they drove through. The car rolled to a stop and Fitz was quick to the door, helping Anna out of the backseat.

  Fitz grinned. He was so in on this and Anna couldn’t contain the grin that had appeared on her face, matching his. “Miss Taylor, please follow me.” Fitz offered her his arm as he led her through the gardens.

  They turned a corner and Anna stopped, her feet unable to move into the scene displayed in front of her. Anna breathed in slowly as a hand covered her palpating heart.

  There was a table set for one with candles dimly lighting the dark sky. Surrounding the area was a vast amount of sunflowers and forget me nots. There were lights strung up in the trees and shrubs where Anna saw a two man band playing the most romantic melody she had ever heard.

  Anna giggled into her hand as she shook her head slowly. Harry had done this for her. Her Harry.

  “Tamale?” A deep voice spoke out breaking her concentration.

  Anna looked around confused. Where was the voice coming from. Fitz realized her confusion and pointed to the table. Anna looked at him suspiciously.

  She walked over to the table where an ipad was propped up. “HARRY?!!” Anna squealed. He was on skype with her all the way from Afghanistan. She hadn’t seen him, only talked to him since he left.

  Harry couldn’t stop smiling at Anna’s surprised expression. She looked absolutely stunning in the red dress he had bought for her. Harry knew that today would be a hard day for her with him being away so she wanted to give her something to do. He was lucky enough to actually be off when she would be here, giving him the chance to see her.

  Anna slowly sat down on the chair in shock. This wasn’t real; this was all a dream, a very good dream. Anna couldn’t peel her eyes off of him. “Is it really you?!” Anna chocked out between breaths.

  “It’s me babe…” Harry chuckled. “I’ve missed you. I miss you so much tamale.” Tears were threatening to abandon her. She reached her hand out, placing it on the screen in attempt to reach out and touch him, but only knowing this was as close as she would ever be to it.

  Harry did the same as silence filled the air. Harry hadn’t realized that she was crying until she wiped a stray tear away from her cheek. “Babe… don’t cry. I’m safe here.” Anna slowly nodded her head, knowing that he was for the time being anyway.

  “I know. I just. I would trade all of this to see you again.” Anna whispered quietly, just loud enough for Harry to hear. She looked up from her lap and squinted her eyes.

  Anna bursted out in laughter. “What are you wearing ginger snap?!” Anna forced out between breathless laughter. Harry was wearing a tux shirt. “Well I couldn’t exactly get dressed up like you babe.” Harry chuckled.

  Hearing her laugh ring out, settled his fears about her dealing with everything. She looked good. She was taking care of herself, focusing on her and that was what Harry wanted her to do.

  “Unless you prefer me naked….” Harry said, with a raised eyebrow. Anna immediately stopped laughing and bit her lip. “Don’t say that if you don’t mean it Wales… I am sexually deprived here.” Anna teased back.

  Harry and Anna continued to converse throughout the served meal. Harry was eating a plate that he brought back from the cafeteria. Anna informed Harry of all the gossip and events going on in his absence.

  “Did you get my present?” Anna smirked into the ipad. Harry nodded, running his hands through his hair. “Ya I did… and umm well let’s just say that I wasn’t the only one who saw them…” Harry confessed as Anna’s mouth dropped to the table.

  “WHAT!!? HARRY?!” Anna could feel the heat rise in her cheeks as she blushed a scarlet red. She buried her face in her hands at the embarrassment of the situation. Anna had sent him a picture of her in lingerie and sent her knickers with it. She was never going to live this down.

  “I’m sorry babe. I opened it in front of them! I had no idea what it was.” Harry tried to explain as he continued. “If its any consolation, I was just as embarrassed as you were.” Harry offered.

  “Oh, Harry.” Anna smiled as she looked back at him. “Let’s just not bring it up again. Please tell me that only you have it now?” Anna asked hopefully. This couldn’t get out. It would be a nightmare if it did.

  “Yes, I’ve got them. By the way… they think I am a very, very lucky man to have you!” Harry winked making Anna groan loudly. “Enough of that though. I have a present for you!”

  Fitz appeared by the table and handed her a tiny felt box. “Wales, if you are proposing to me like this I am going to kill-“ Harry interrupted her, “NO! I’m not... I swear. Well, I mean not that I don’t want to. Well not yet-“ Harry was inwardly cursing himself. He was just digging a deeper hole.

  Anna chuckled quietly at his struggle for words. “Harry! I understand, I was just playing a joke on you babe! No need to get all hot and bothered.” A smirk appeared on his face. “I am all hot and bothered seeing you in that dress babe… that won’t change. Now open it up!”

  Anna shook her head; of course he would say that. Anna slowly pulled away the red ribbon off the black velvet box. She could feel Harry’s eyes analyzing her reaction.

  Anna slowly opened the box revealing a diamond infinity ring set in white gold. Her mouth opened in surprise, as she held in a breath. “Harry…” Anna exhaled before her hand covered her mouth.

  She took the ring out of the box. It was no doubt expensive. “Harry… this is too much babe.” Anna said as she held the expensive ring between her fingers. This was all too expensive.

  “Babe, it really isn’t. Plus I just wanted to show you how much you mean to me. You’re worth every penny and more…” Anna looked up at him on the screen, touched at his words.

  A smile tugged at the corner of her lips, breaking out into a wide grin. “I love it! It’s so beautiful!” Anna slipped it on her finger; a perfect fit. “I wish I could kiss you right now for all this Harry.”

  “Soon babe, soon. I’m glad you like the ring.” Harry smiled, relieved that she did in fact love the ring. “I love you tamale.” He missed her everyday. As he waited in between calls, his mind drifted to her. He needed to see her tonight, needed to see his girl. Anna kept him going through everything that was happening around. He was fighting, doing everything he could to come back to her in one piece. Something that he promised her. A promise that he would do anything in his power to keep.

  “I love you more ginger snap…” Anna was trying to memorize the features of his face, committing it to memory for a later date. She couldn’t believe everything he had done for her tonight, something that she would ever be grateful for. She could have been sitting alone at home, drinking wine and sobbing to chick flicks, but instead she was here. This was exactly what Anna needed to get through the last few weeks of his deployment.

  “Not possible Anna…”

She shook the thought from her mind and reached for the dog tag that hung around her neck. She played with it in her hands, hoping, wishing that this was all just a dream and that he would walk through her bedroom doors displaying his signature smirk.

  But she knew all too well that this was not a dream, that this was the reality she had faced so many times before with her family. Each time someone was deployed it never got easier, in fact, it got harder.

  She grabbed her phone and the screen turned on. A picture of her and Harry on top of the mountain was displayed as if it was taunting her to cave into her emotions once again and break down. She swiped it away with the flick of a finger.

  10 missed calls and numerous texts were left unanswered. Most were from Mia, her mother and Sophie. She continued down the list of missed calls until she realized she had a voicemail from Kate. Her heart began to race, hoping to god that she was just checking up on Anna and not had any crippling news about Harry. It wouldn’t be… he just left yesterday… he would be ok…he was ok. Anna tried to convince herself.

  Anna listened to Kate’s voicemail. She insisted on having Anna over for supper that evening at Kensington palace. Kate had her convinced once she said that Harry had left something with Kate to give to her. Anna called Kate back, arranging the details for their supper date.

  Anna hung up the phone. Her thoughts drifted to the previous day in the private room with Harry. As his absent voice came flooding into her memory…

  “Anna…promise me that you will take care of yourself…”

  She needed to keep her self busy, to look after herself just like she had promised Harry. Anna threw the blankets off of her and got ready for the day. Anna had called her mother and was able to keep the constant waves of emotion in check, mainly not wanting her mother to worry about her.

  Her door bell rang and Amelia ran to the door. Fitz was standing in the door frame. Relief washed through her to see such a familiar face. He smiled back at her, “Miss Taylor, I will be driving you to Kensington Palace this evening.” Anna smiled for the first time since Harry left. “Fitz… you mustn’t call me that…please call me Anna and I am so glad it’s you! Give me one minute and I will be ready…”

  The car pulled through the intrinsic gates of Kensington Palace. Anna looked down at her hands. They were shaking nervously and out of control. A tear escaped, trickling down her cheek at the memory of the last time she was here…the last night with Harry.

  The car rolled to a stop and Anna wiped the tear away, wiping the memory from her mind. Tonight was going to be fun, tonight she wouldn’t think about his absence, tonight she would look after herself like she promised him.

  Anna made her way to the door, but it opened quickly, Kate running out to pull Anna into a big hug. Anna hugged her back. “Anna… I am here… I am here for you…” Kate whispered making Anna’s tears come raging back. She knew that Kate understood what it was like to date a prince and that comforted her. Anna knew that she could count on Kate and even Will for that matter while Harry was gone.

  Anna pulled away once her tears stopped. Kate apologized for making her cry as she cupped Anna’s cheeks, her thumbs wiping the remnants of the tears away. Kate grabbed her hand and led her into the apartment.

  Will had just finished setting the table as Anna and Kate came into his view. “Anna!” Will said as he walked towards Kate with open arms, pulling her into the same hug that Kate had.

  “How are you doing Anna…” Will said as he pulled out a bottle of wine, Kate grabbing three glasses. Anna took a deep breath, she couldn’t lie. “Well… I miss him….” Anna quietly whispered just loud enough for the both of them to hear.

  Anna looked up at Will, locking his gaze with hers. He had promised his brother that he would look after Anna and he intended to keep it with everything in his power. “Anna… I am sure he is fine… he hasn’t called anyone yet. If there is anything you need, anything that we can do, we are here.”

  Will handed Anna a glass of wine. “Thank you Will, you don’t know how much that means to me…” The three of them had a wonderful supper, distracting Anna from her thoughts. They were sitting on the couch when Will and Kate shared a look.

  Will visibly squeezed Kate’s hand. “Kate… Will… what is it?” Anna grew anxious after catching the shared look between them. Had they been lying to her, was Harry alright. Kate saw the visible anxiety building within Anna as it mirrored on her face.

  “No Anna! It’s alright.” Kate got up and went to sit beside Anna. Anna took a deep breath of relief. Kate gathered Anna’s hands in hers. “Harry left something here with us that he wants you to have…” Kate turned to Will giving him a nod as he got up and left the room.

  Will came back shortly with a small Tupperware container and handed it to Kate. Kate opened it and inside of it were ginger snap cookies. Anna’s hand flew to her mouth as she started to laugh whole-heartedly. Of course Harry would make her these, after all he was her ginger snap…

  Kate had a grin plastered on her face. Harry had told her that she would laugh at his gesture. “So… here’s the deal.” Kate paused as Anna turned her attention to her. “Every Sunday, you are to come for supper and pick a ginger snap. There is one for every week that he is gone. Inside is a laminate paper with something written on it that you need to do each week… document it with this camera…and send the pictures to Harry…”

  Anna chuckled, but she soon got emotional. Even from hundreds and hundreds of miles away he was looking after her, making plans to ensure she was busy. The truth of the matter was she would trade all of this just to see him again, even for one more minute with him.

  “Did he make them himself?” Anna chuckled as the thought of seeing him slaving in the kitchen covered in flour trying to make these cookies for her. Will snickered, “Haha!! Of course he did… I even tried to help him but he threw me out!” The three dissolved into a fit of laughter. Harry was so stubborn.

  Anna picked out one of the cookies and broke it open to reveal her week’s instruction. It read… Puppy Therapy… Call Second Chance Shelters and ask for Lisa. Anna read it out loud. She loved the idea of being surrounded by cute fluffy puppies that would take her mind away from her worries.

  Anna took the bite of the ginger snap and shared a disgusting look on her face causing Will to roar with laughter. It tasted disgusting. Way beyond edible. Anna swallowed her bite. “Oh god Harry…. If you wanted to kill me…” this made Kate join in with Will’s laughter.

  Anna thanked Will and Kate for the evening as she took the camera and her puppy therapy card. Fitz walked her to the car. She suddenly stopped. She wanted to go into Harry’s apartment, she needed too. “Fitz… can you give me a few more minutes?” Fitz nodded as Anna made her way back inside.

  She reached his front door and dug out the rung of keys that he had given her before his departure. Anna’s hands nervously shook as she picked out the right key. She paused before inserting it into the lock. Did she really want to unleash what was waiting behind that door for her? Would she be able to handle it?

  Anna impulsively pushed the key into the lock and quickly opened it before she could regret it. She stepped into the darkness filled room. Anna blindly searched for the light and it flickered on.

  Anna took a few steps into the quiet apartment. The absence filtered into her lungs making it difficult to breath but she still strolled through the apartment. Anna walked into the kitchen.

  She inhaled sharply as a mix of tears and laughter came flowing through her lips, not sure which emotion would become dominate. Anna walked down the long hallway to the door of his room. Anna pushed it open slowly as the door creaked, breaking the silence that stirred in the room.

  She immediately got a whiff of his scent, the smell almost flooring her. She unconsciously wandered into his closet and stopped as she saw his Sentebale bunny hug. Anna kneeled down on and grabbed it out of the laundry bin.

  She lifted it to her face; his scent was plastered throughout it. The tears that she held back all evening came pouring out. She did not realize how hard this was truly going to be for her. Each second began to feel like a lifetime, her existence ceased to be real. Harry was the one who kept her heart beating and now that he was gone, each time it tried to beat, it was an unimaginable pain but it still continued to beat despite it. It was if her existence depended on him.

  Anna was oblivious to the fact that footsteps were approaching. A warm sturdy frame pulled her into his arms, trying to shush her. “It’s ok Anna… he will be alright… you will be ok…”

  Only then did Anna look at who was comforting her. It was William. She broke down further as she gasped for breath, tightening her grip on Will. Anna took a deep breath and then it hit her. She hadn’t been breathing since she said goodbye to him. Anna’s sobs subsided after a few minutes and William pulled her to her feet.

  “You know… you can stay here if you want… anytime you want…” Will whispered. Anna smiled at him. She looked around his room debating her decision. “Will… I can’t.” Wills head sprang up. This was not what he thought she would say. A confused look was etched across his face.

  “I…” Anna took another breath. “I can’t explain it… but it makes sense to me and its something that I need to do…” Anna thanked Will for everything as he walked her to the car. Ftiz dropped her off at her home bidding her goodnight.

  --------------------------------------------------------------

  The reason Anna couldn’t stay at Harry’s apartment was actually quite simple. In that moment she realized how dependent she became having been with Harry. Before hand she took care of herself and was able to. Anna’s reliance on him threatened to break her down in his absence. He was right… she needed to take care of herself. Yes of course she was still going to miss him, but she needed to be able to survive this and get through this on her own. She needed to be strong for him and in order to be strong she needed to rely on herself to make it through.

  Day 3

  Today was the first day Anna was back at work. Harry’s deployment had yet to be made public and Anna had to appear like nothing was wrong. She saw the paparazzi that stalked her from across the street from her work. They were yelling at her trying to get her attention. They hadn’t gotten any pictures of the couple together for a while and they were like a pack of hungry wolves.

  Anna made it through the front doors and making her way into her office. She had yet to actually hear from Harry and with each passing minute, worry grew within her. Anna dove into the case files as an attempt to forget everything.

  Sophie walked into her office with a sheepish grin on her face. Anna immediately knew that something was up. She leaned back in her office chair and crossed her arms. “Sophie… spit it out” Sophie started to turn and walk away.

  “Sophie!!” Anna stood up. “Tell me!” Sophie began to ring her hands together as she stepped back closer to Anna. “Anna... it’s about Ava…” Anna stopped breathing. Sophie sighed, “Her foster father…”

  “No!” Anna shook her head, she couldn’t deal with this right now. “She’s ok… Ava’s in the hospital now. She’s ok Anna…” Anna grabbed her jacket and purse. “Where is she? What hospital?”

  Anna ran through the halls up to the pediatric ward where Ava was staying. She briefly stopped at the nurse’s station to find the room she was in. Anger was the only thing she felt bubbling inside of her screaming to erupt like a volcano. This was the second case of violence she had on her plate and she wanted it to end.

  Anna made it to the room. She stopped, closing her eyes, checking her emotions. Ava didn’t need to see her this way. Anna took a step in. Ava was sitting up in bed watching a cartoon on the pull out TV. Her eyes darted to the entrance of the room, her face lighting up as she saw Anna walk towards her.

  “Anna!!” Ava happily said as she stuck her arms out wanting a hug. Anna sat down on the edge of the bed, pulling the tiny girl into her arms. Ava had a tiny bruise on the side of her face. Her arm was in a tiny pink fluorescent cast.

  Anna could feel the anger once again building and building inside of her being sparked by Ava’s injuries. Ava’s grip tightened around Anna. “He hurt me Miss Anna…he gave me some owies…” Anna pulled Ava in tighter. This was the part of her job that she hated, yes she hated it with a passion. Why couldn’t someone just take an innocent child and not have to take their life’s issues out on them. What could they do? Could they fight back? No.

  Anna just held Ava until she broke the hug. Ava sat back and lifted her casted arm. “Can I have your signature Miss Anna?” Anna let out a small chuckle. She knew that Ava would be alright, this kid was so resilient, something that she would need as she grew older. “Of course Ava, I would love too.”

  That night Anna stayed in the hospital with Ava. She was sleeping in the bedside chair when she suddenly woke up. Anna leaned forward leaning on her elbows that sat on her knees. Ava was out cold, her breaths easily rising and falling.

  Her phone began to vibrate and Anna pulled it out from her purse. It was a number she had never seen before. She just about hit the ignore button when she realized that it could be Harry. Anna answered it hurriedly, quietly tiptoeing out of the room careful not to wake Ava.

  “Harry?!” Anna whispered

  “Yes tamale… it’s me” a husky voice spoke on the other line. It was Harry. She took a deep breath in. She needed him after a day like today.

  “Are you ok? Please tell me you’re ok…” Anna waited anxiously.

  “I’m alright babe. You seem… you seem stressed. Everything ok?” Of course he would know when something was wrong with her.

  She didn’t want Harry to worry about her. “I’m ok….” Anna lied, but Harry knew better.

  “Anna… tell me…” Harry said in a low demanding voice.

  Anna sighed, “It’s about Ava…” Anna paused. He would be furious when she told him. “Her foster father broke her arm and I think he hit her… she has a small bruise on her cheek…”

  Harry was silent. “That FUCKING BASTARD!!! HOW COULD HE DO SOMETHING LIKE THAT TO HER! TO AVA!!!”

  Yup…he responded just like she thought he would. “I know babe… but she’s ok…” Anna sighed as she leaned back into the room to check on Ava. “I am in the hospital with her right now…”

  “Good... she needs you Anna…” Harry paused. “Where is she going to stay now… she can’t go back to him…”

  To be honest, Anna hadn’t even thought of where she would go. It would break her heart to be put back into the system… to another man that could do the exact same thing to her. An idea hit her.

  “Harry… what if…” Anna sighed. “What if she stayed with me?”

  Harry smiled. “Anna that’s a great idea. But how long would she be staying with you.. I just want you to realize what may happen. I know you Anna. Would this be a long term or short term thing until she gets adopted?”

  Anna knew exactly where Harry was coming from. When the time came would Anna be able to give Ava to somebody… She knew it would be tough, but Anna didn’t want Ava to go back to someone who didn’t care about her. She had to do it, Anna just hoped that he would support her.

  “Harry… I need to do it. It will only be a short term thing…” Anna waited silently to hear his response. After all it did affect him as well.

  “That’s wonderful Anna, you have my full support. As long as if you are able to do it, which I know you will be able to, I’m gained. Just think about all the things come attached to us Anna… the media for one thing. I don’t want you to rush into a decision that you can’t come back from…”

  Harry was just trying to lay all the elements out on the table. She had his support whatever she decided. This was the so-called ‘baggage’ that came with dating a prince.

  “You’re right Harry… what if I just take her home for a few days, she has school and then we can decide. They are discharging her tomorrow and I just need some time before I have to take her somewhere.”

  “That sounds like a plan. Did you get my ginger snap?” Harry chuckled.

  “Yes! I did! Harry… you’re a terrible cook!!” Anna teased.

  “WHAT!!! You’re lying tamale! I am an excellent cook! Which one did you get?”

  Anna shook her head. “Umm… the puppy therapy one! That is exactly what I need right now babe! Thank you so much for putting all that effort into this. I really appreciate it.”

  “Anything for you babe…”

  Anna sighed, “I miss you Harry. I miss you so much…”

  Anna could hear Harry sigh through the phone. “I miss you too Anna. It will go by faster than you think it will…” Anna could hear some muffled voices on the phone. “Babe… I have to go. Whatever you decide about Ava, just know that I am 100% behind you. Give her a hug for me… I love you”

  “Love you too babe… be careful…”

  “I will…. Love you.” Harry hung up.

“No worries! I have her bag packed and Mary has covered her work for the rest of the week. Can you tell me where you are taking her?!!” Harry smirked and shook his head no. A serious expression eclipsed across his face as he took a deep breath thinking of how to start this conversation.

  “Listen… Sophie, there is something I need to tell you…” Sophie suggested that they have a seat at the kitchen table as she got the impression that this was a serious matter. Harry nervously played with his hands. “I am going to Afghanistan in five days…” Harry said as he looked up to her to gauge her reaction. She just sat there nodding and processing her thoughts so Harry decided to lay it all out for her. “I am trusting you to not tell anyone… it could put my life on the line as well as others if people knew. The reason why I am telling you this is because of Anna. I need someone other than my family and friends to look after her…  and you know her the best, you can tell when something is wrong…can you do that for me?”

  Sophie nodded and began to speak, “Harry of course I will look after her. I knew something was off with her. I promise to keep her busy and do whatever you need me to do. She is not just my friend… she’s part of my family. Now what can I do….”

  Harry smiled as relief washed through him. He knew Anna would never tell Sophie herself so he had to let her in. She needed a rock through this, someone she could talk to and trust. For Anna that was Sophie.

  ---------------------------------------------------------------

  Anna and Kate were heading back to the vehicle from the café. Kate offered Anna a ride back to work and Anna initially refused until Kate mentioned the press and Anna reconsidered.

  Anna was caught up in conversation with Kate when she realized that they were not going in the direction of her work. “Kate… we must have missed a turn…” Anna said looking out the window, trying to pinpoint where they were. Kate replied, “nope we are going the right way” a secretive smile was placed on her face for a short second but Anna caught it. Something was up.

  “Kate… what is going on?” Anna said in a low serious voice. Kate didn’t respond, pretending to ignore her. It was all she could do to not give it away. “KATE!!!” Anna huffed crossing her arms. She decided to call Harry and find out what the hell was going on. He didn’t answer and it went to voicemail.

  “Harry… I don’t know what is going on… I am pretty sure Kate is planning my murder as we speak unless you are involved in this and if you are!!! Not even your sexy ass can save you!!”  Anna hung up and heard Kate giggling quietly next to her.

  Anna peered over in the back seat. “Thank god there is no shovel in the back.” This made Kate dissolve into uncontrollable laughter, and the fact that Anna found none of this funny made her laugh even more. Anna hated surprises; she liked to be in control of the situation.

  Anna saw a sign for the airport. “WHAT THE HELL ARE WE DOING HERE!!!” The car pulled into the private airfield and made its way to a helicopter with a ginger haired man standing next to it. Even from this distance she knew for a fact that his signature smirk was plastered on his face. The car came to a stop and the two girls got out of the car, Harry making his way over to Anna.

  “Hey tamale…” Harry said and placed a quick passionate kiss to her lips while confusion and curiosity reflected on her face. “Thanks Kate…” “Have a good time you two… see you when you get back.”

  Kate said goodbye and left the two of them, as Anna was still in a state of shock. “Harry… what’s going on?” Harry chuckled at her shocked expression. “Well… we are going on a private holiday for a few days. Sophie packed you a bag and you have the rest of the week off of work” Harry said leading her by the hand towards the helicopter. A smile broke out on her face and a gleeful squeal escaped her lips and Harry chuckled at her excitement, throwing his head back in laughter at her squeal. “One more thing… I am flying this” Harry said and pointed to the helicopter. Anna’s mouth dropped open. “I do need a co-pilot however… think you’d be up for the job?” Anna started to jump up and down in excitement, “YES!!! HOLY! OF COURSE!!”

  Anna was sitting beside Harry in the co-pilot’s seat with his RPOs in the back. Harry handed her the headset and showed her how to talk to him during the flight. He turned on the engine and the helicopter came to life. Anna admitted to herself, even though she didn’t like surprises, this changed her mind of them. Her uncle had taken her in his small plane as a child and she loved the feeling of it.

  Anna was looking down at the view of London beneath them. Everything seemed so insignificant throughout the landscape. “So where are we going Captain?” Anna asked through the headphones. Harry chuckled and responded, “not giving it away… you will see once we get there. Harry had been planning this trip ever since he told her about his deployment. He called in all the favors people owed him to make light of this trip. Most of all he wanted some alone time with Anna before leaving. He also needed to discuss a few things with here that he planned on doing that night to get it over with so they could enjoy the rest of their trip together.

  “Ready to help me fly?” Harry asked once he was sure that everything would be alright. Anna nodded enthusiastically with a wide grin on her face. He instructed her over the headphones, letting her know that he would be in control of the chopper the whole time. Harry instructed Anna to slowly pull the lever towards her making the chopper go higher in the sky. Anna continued to try small maneuvers under Harry’s direction.

  This made Anna feel more comfortable with his deployment. He seemed to know what he was doing and this gave her confirmation in her confidence in him, that he would be alright and come back home to her. Harry got approval to land at the airport. He started his descent and spoke over the headphones to Anna, “Welcome to Cannes tamale!”

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  Harry and Anna exited the vehicle as they came up to an eloquent private beach house like place with a sign that read Casanova’s Bed and Breakfast situated just outside the city of Cannes along the ocean. Anna’s emotions were running high ever since they had arrived at the airport in London. She could not believe that Harry had all of this planned perfectly. She had never been to France in the whole time she had been in the UK. She preferred the country/beach compared to city life and glad he chose this place over Paris. It was more private, more intimate.

  Harry grabbed their bags from the trunk as a middle-aged couple came through the front door coming to greet them. “Harry!! So glad to see you again!” the man said in a french accent as he shook Harry’s hand. “Anna… this is Jean Pierre and Marie, they were cooks in my mothers apartment and run this bed and breakfast here…. This is my girlfriend Anna…” Anna smiled and greeted them in French shaking their hands. “you speak French Anna?” Harry asked while following Jean Pierre and Marie into the house. Anna nodded and looked up to Harry, “yes, French and Spanish actually…”

  They led the couple into the house and explained everything that they would need to know. It was set up for 2 couples but Harry paid for the whole place for privacy and the POs would stay in the house down the road. Jean Pierre and Marie let the couple have their privacy and explained when supper would be ready for them.

  Anna was standing out on the balcony taking in the view and warm weather when Harry came up behind her wrapping his arms around her and placing his chin on her shoulder. She leaned her head back onto his chest and covered his joined hands with one of hers. “So…what do you think?” Anna sighed after Harry’s question. “its beautiful, thank you for taking me here ginger snap” Anna smiled and started to sway slightly. “Mhmm, it reminds me of how beautiful you are…” causing Anna to laugh. “Trying to get luck tonight Captain?” Harry silently nodded yes.

  After supper, Anna wanted to go check out the beach but Harry desperately needed to have this conversation with her. He decided to wait until later that night, he just couldn’t bring himself to be the one to clear her of that happy smile on her face.

  They walked hand in hand down their private beach until Anna skillfully pushed Harry into the water as he lost his balance. He wasn’t wearing any swimming trunks and was completely soaked. Anna just stood there laughing until he started chasing after her and she took off. Harry’s legs benefited him and came up behind her and scooped her up as she began screaming. He threw her over his shoulder and carried her into the ocean.

  “Harry!!! You better not fart!!” Anna screamed as she spanked his ass. He set her down once they were waist deep. The cold water splashed against her, making her freeze, causing her to jump back into his arms to get away from the chilled water. Anna was chasing Harry out of the water after he splashed her, soaking her completely. He turned and she pounced on him knocking him onto the sand. Anna was giggling on top of him as he closed in to attack her lips.

  This kiss was unlike any other. Desperate for more contact, Anna allowed Harry access to her tongue, as she lightly bit down on his lip and then continued to kiss it better. Harry pulled her closer to him and deepened the kiss as the waves came crashing around them, neither one caring about the frozen water chilling them. Harry made sure he had a handle on her and flipped her on her back on the sand and was now hovering over her.

  He leaned in again to continue but she stopped him. Anna stared into his deep blue eyes, making her lose her breath. “Harry…” Anna said trying to catch her breath that he had taken away from her. “Harry… I love you…” Anna said as she raised her hand cupping his cheek and slowly etching out a heart on it. Harry’s hand moved a stray hair, harboring her eyes. Her eyes spoke for itself, she truly loved him. “I love you too Anna…” Harry confessed. The couple stayed like that until the sun had set as they wandered hand in hand back to the house.

  They had taken their relationship to the next level. Those three words were not forced or said because of Harry’s deployment. They both had known that they loved each other, neither one wanting to be the first to say it as their past of rejection haunted them. Despite the amount of time they had been together, they truly believed each others words, time wasn’t a factor in their feelings. But it would be time that kept them apart for four months.

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Harry handed her a towel once they got into back inside. Harry suggested a warm bath and Anna agreed, he told her to grab a bottle of wine and two glasses. Anna wandered to the bathroom where Harry was finishing lighting one of the several candles. Candles and flower petals were scattered across the bathroom. Anna took in an audible breath at the site in front of her, alerting Harry to her presence.

  “Hey tamale… wanna join me?” Harry said as he began to strip and then poured them a glass of wine. Anna got in the bathtub and snuggled up close to Harry, her back pressed up against his front. He pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead.

  “Anna… we need to talk and I don’t want to wait any longer to talk about this…” Anna was quiet, she suspected that at some point they would have this talk. Anna nodded a yes as she turned around to face him, splashing the water around. She grabbed a handful of bubbles and blew them in his face. Harry frowned and grabbed two handfuls of bubbles and placed them on her breasts. “There that’s better…” Harry smirked and received a smack on the chest as Anna protested, “oh really Captain, and you think you’re going to get some tonight?”

  The couple had remembered what they were suppose to be talking about and both grew serious. Harry was torn and didn’t know how to start this conversation. She sensed his internal struggle and moved herself to straddle him. She cupped his face with both of her hands making him look at her.

  “Harry… just tell me… don’t think about it, don’t analyze it, just tell me…” Harry smiled at her words. He reached over for his glass of wine and chugged the rest, hoping to gain some liquid courage as Anna waited in silence.

  “Ok… my granny approved you to come to the base with me. We will be in a private room and I will be able to say goodbye to you then. When I come home-“ “You better come home…” Anna unknowingly interrupted him in a quiet voice. Her words tore his heart in two as tears brimmed her sparkly blue eyes. He lifted her chin, as she slowly looked up at him from under her eyelashes.

  “I will come home to you Anna… I will do everything in my power to come home to you…I promise…” Harry said in a comforting tone. “But if I –“

  “NO!!” Anna blurted out, “no…” Anna turned quiet dropping her head. “Please don’t say that Harry… I don’t even want to think about that…” Harry felt like he was breaking her heart, but he had to continue, she had to know. He pulled her forehead close to his lips and firmly pressed his lips against it. While his lips lingered on her forehead she broke down in tears. Harry pulled her to him once he felt the teardrops fall onto his chest. He held her in his arms as she struggled to gain control of her emotions.

  Once her sobs subsided she looked up at him and he had tears in his eyes. She had no idea that he was crying. “Harry…babe…” Neither knew what to say, each letting their emotions speak. Anna composed herself, “I love you Harry…” Anna paused and took a deep breath. “I know you will do everything you can to come home in one piece… but if you don’t…” Anna looked to Harry, letting him take over the conversation.

  “If I don’t or something happens to me… my father will contact you. I made him swear that you wouldn’t find out over the media.” Anna nodded showing Harry that she understood. He then continued, “I don’t know when I will be able to contact you, but I will as soon as I get the chance too. I will call you whenever I can, but don’t worry if you don’t hear from me ok?” Anna smiled trying to raise his spirits a bit.

  “You can call anyone if you need anything at all, ok? Will, Kate, Skippy, and Zara have promised me to check up on you. Go out, travel, work, do whatever you need to distract yourself from worrying about me…” Anna shook her head no as she brought her hand to her lips to try and cover an escaped sob. “I could never not worry about you ginger snap… but I will try to keep busy… I promise.” Harry smiled, “That’s all I am asking for. I love you Anna, I love you so much.”

  *M*

  That was all Harry had to say, that part was behind them. His lips reached Anna’s and a gentle kiss developed into a kiss that spoke of goodbyes and love. Anna reached under the water and grabbed his cock, starting to run her hand up and down it.

  “Harry… I need you… I need you now” Harry continued assaulting her lips but broke apart to reply, “I need you too babe…” Anna released his cock and sat up in his lap, positioning himself at her entrance. Anna sank down, taking his whole length into her as a whimper escaped her lips. He sucked on her breasts until she was ready to move again.

*EM*

That night they consummated their spoken love for each other. The emotions of that night overflowed them and poured over into their love making. They moved from the bathtub to the couch and ended up on the bed. Anna fell asleep quickly beside Harry, but he stayed up late as his thoughts took control of him. He looked down at Anna’s peaceful form; her breaths even and a small smile appearing on her lips. She let out a small shiver and he scooped in behind her giving her the warmth of his body and of his love.

  “I love you Anna…” he whispered into her ear as exhaustion from his emotions drove him into a deep slumber.

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  The next day was spent at the beach and touring around the country side. Harry took her to a sunflower maze and they spent hours in it since Harry was to stubborn to take a map. He told Anna that he could figure it out on his own. Anna just went with it but secretly grabbed a map and placed it in her pocket.

  Harry eventually admitted that they were lost and Anna pulled the map out of her back pocket, displaying a cheeky grin. Harry just shook his head, he should’ve known that she would do that. Anna jumped on Harry’s back, giving her a piggy back ride as she analyzed the map and told him where to go.

  That night after a beach sunset supper, Harry pulled out Anna’s ipod and started to play a song on the big speakers. Anna groaned… ever since Harry heard this song, he played it non-stop. Anna was sitting on the sofa as Harry started dancing towards here. “Dance with me tamale…” Harry offered her hand and she laughed and took it, pulling her from the couch.

  Harry and Anna danced like nobody was watching, belting the duet parts out at the top of their lungs.

  I'm having me a party (I don't think I can come) Uh,uh, this ain't just any kind of party (Nah, I think I'll stay at home) Uh, oh, no It's gonna be really, really hot (Startin' to sound good) I'm gonna put you on the spot  (Baby, maybe I should) Yeah, there'll be lots of one on one (Guess I could be there) Come on and join the fun (What should I wear?) I'll tell you that it.. It doesn't matter what you wear 'Cause it's only gonna be you and me there (Whoa!) I'm having a party A party for two Invitin' nobody Nobody but you You'll be sexy in your socks (We could polish the floors) In case that anybody knocks (Let's lock all the doors) Yeah, all the things I'm gonna do (I'm gonna do with you) I wanna try something new (I wanna try it, too)

  (here is the song if you want to listen to it http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cF3rK7zBmBU)

  The song ended and the next one started to play. It was a slow song. Harry offered her hand and bowed as laughter rang from Anna’s lips. Anna took his hand and he pulled her in close, resting his hand on the small of her back as they started to sway.

  Anna rested her head on her chest and closed her eyes. “I love you Wales” Harry smiled and bent his head to and planted a peck on her cheek. “I love you more…”

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  It was Thursday, the morning after Harry and Anna returned from Cannes. Harry was meeting up for drinks with his friends Skippy, Jake and Arthur.  Skippy was the only one of his friends that knew about his deployment. He would be the one to tell the others about when the time came.

  They met at Skippy’s place and drank beer while playing poker. Harry stepped out on Skippy’s balcony after the others had left. He left Saturday morning, less than 48 hours. How was he suppose to say goodbye to all his family and friends, with the possibility in mind that this could the last time he saw them. He was a positive person and knew that he would be fine, the army wouldn’t send them out there if he didn’t know what he was doing, but he had to be realistic; there was a chance of him not coming home.

  The screen door creaked as Skippy walked through carrying two beers in his hands. “Hey mate… here ya go” Skippy said handing Harry a beer. “I promise, Harry.” Harry took a sip of his beer and made eye contact with him. “I promise I will make sure she is ok. You just need to worry about getting yourself home in one piece… promise?” Harry chuckled, “Thanks mate, I know you will, she can be pretty stubborn watch out.”

  Harry put on his jacket as an uncomfortable silence lingered in the room. Harry stood there with his hands in his pockets when Skippy pulled him into a big hug. Harry wrapped his arms around his best friend, “Be careful mate, see you in a few months.”

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  Friday Morning

  Harry made his way over to Will and Kate’s apartment at Kensington Palace. Today he had to say his goodbyes. Tonight Anna was coming over and spending the night as she would be coming with him to the base, able to say goodbye to him then. Will answered the door and his smile fell from his face as he saw it was Harry coming to say goodbye. He invited Harry in as Lupo came bounding up to Harry wanting to get as many pets and tummy rubs as he could.

  Will and Kate both promised to Harry to watch over Anna, especially if the media hounded her too much. Harry handed Kate the Tupperware container he had in his arms and Kate placed it in a safe place so Lupo wouldn’t get at it.

  It was time for Harry to head over to his grandparents and father at Buckingham Palace to say goodbye to them. Kate said a quick goodbye and made him promise to come home as she wanted Anna as a sister in law providing some humor amongst the reality of the overcrowding sadness.

  Kate left Will and Harry alone to say their goodbye in private. Will spoke first, “Harry… mum would be proud of you. I know she would be. You have a guardian angel bro, so you’re guaranteed to come home.” At the mention of his mother, his emotion spiked. What Will said was true, he did have a guardian angel and that provided him with comfort. “Thanks Will, I know she would be too. I just wish I could say goodbye to her today too…” At those words, Will grabbed Harry and pulled him into a death gripped hug.

  “You better be careful Harry, I need you here by my side and so does Anna and Kate and father and granny and-“ Harry began to chuckle as he interrupted Will, “I KNOW WILL!! Trust me I am coming home. You wouldn’t survive without me, you would be the one always getting into trouble and fucking up if I wasn’t here.” Harry teased as he broke apart, making Will laugh with him. Will let walked Harry to his car where he gave him another hug.

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  Friday Evening

  Anna drove into Kensington Palace and parked her car. She grabbed her overnight bag and a small box as she began to make her way towards his apartment. Harry stepped out from the door and saw her struggling with her box and bag. He grabbed her bag from her hands and pressed a gentle kiss to her lips.

  He took her bag into his bedroom while she placed the box on his kitchen table. They both knew it was their last night together and they were going to make the most of it. Harry had the cooks at KP make them supper.

  Harry was eager and curious to find out what Anna had in the box. He started to open it when she excused herself to use the bathroom. She came back to kitchen area catching Harry with his pocket knife open, trying to discreetly open it. “HARRY!!” Harry turned to her and displayed a cheeky grin as she caught him.

  “I just want to know what it is!!” Harry said with a pouty lip as Anna crossed the room to him. Anna rubbed his back teasing him about his impatience, but agreeing to show him what was in it. He continued to open it and Harry pulled out leather bound journal book with an engraving ‘Honor before bravery’ The Household Cavalry’s motto.

  Harry ran his hands down the leather journal’s binding. “It’s for when you have some down time. You can write whatever you want in it…” Harry turned to her and pulled her to him capturing her soft lips into a simple thank you kiss. “This is perfect tamale. Thank you, I love it!! I will be writing about you babe…” Anna chuckled.

  “There are a few more things in here…” Anna said reaching in the box. Anna pulled out a few candy boxes of hot tamales causing Harry to throw his head back in laughter. “You can have these, when you miss me…” Anna handed them to him as he replied, “that would be all the time babe!”

  Anna pulled out a stack of envelopes with writing on the front. Anna took a breath. “My mother used to do this for my father when he was being deployed,” Anna paused as a small chuckle escaped her lips. “as kids, we would help her do it so he would have something of us over there…”

  At the top left of the envelope, each one read ‘open when…” each letter had its own saying in the center. Harry shuffled through a few reading them…

  ‘open when… you need to know how much I love you…’

‘open when… you’ve had a tough day defending me…’

‘open when… you miss my lips…’

‘open when… you think you have lost yourself…’

    “Anna… I don’t know what to say other than thank you for doing this for me. I love you Anna.” Harry ducked his head and smothered her with kisses, thanking her for the gesture and gifts that he would definitely need in order to get through his deployment and the four months without Anna.

  “I love you too Harry. Don’t forget it…” Harry smiled as he responded, “never, never ever.” Harry darted off to his bedroom, as he wanted to give Anna something as well. He returned with a pillow and something in a small box. He handed her the pillow first as Anna read out loud what was written in his writing.

  ‘A Hug From Harry, I just hugged this pillow and squeezed it really tight, filled with best wishes, warmth and cheer, love and light. So when you’re feeling low, just hold it near your heart, you’ll feel my love and it will seem we’re not so far apart.’

  Anna hugged it as his scent radiated from it. Anna looked up at him “Harry…awe… ginger snap… you’re going to make me cry and I promised I wouldn’t tonight.” Harry pulled her into a hug and his scent matched the pillow making tears threaten to abandon her. Harry broke the hug as he reached behind him and pulled out a small rectangular jewelry box.

  “Harry, you better not be pro-“ Harry threw his hands up, “NO!! well, not this time, no” Harry said with a nervous laugh. He opened it and two army dog tags were placed neatly inside. Anna reached in and grabbed the one Harry told her too. A heart shape was cut out and it had an engraving beneath it.

  ‘My missing puzzle piece, my love, my co-pilot’ Anna read saying the last line out loud. “Turn it over… on the back is my location in Afghanistan in longitude and latitude…” Anna turned it over and raised a hand to her heart as she felt it swell inside of her. “I made one too, same engraving, but with your flat’s longitude and latitude on the back… you have my heart and I have yours…”

  Anna pulled hers on as she was lost for words. “I love it Harry… you are the most amazing man I have ever met… you know just how to look after me, thank you. I love you Harry…” Anna said while Harry was putting his dog tag on. “I love you too Anna. Why don’t we make more love?” Harry said with a sexy grin.

  Anna raised her eyebrow suggestively and nodded. Harry picked her up bridal style and carried her to his room. Harry tossed her on the bed and started to attack her lips. She held a finger to his lips to stop him. “Anna! Come on we have a long night ahead of us… I need to get ready for four months without you!!” Anna chuckled. “I know babe, but I have something for you so I need you to go back out the bedroom and I will call you back in once I’m ready…” Harry groaned in sexual frustration and headed out of the bedroom “it better be fucking good ANNA!!”

  A few minutes later Harry was called back into the bedroom. He froze in shock. Anna was lying on the bed in army camouflage lingere. “Come on Captain… you need to punish me for my disobedience” Anna said with a sexy grin and motioned a come here gesture with her index finger. That night Harry definitely punished her anyway he could…

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  Harry’s alarm woke the tangled couple from their small amount of sleep they got that night. The sound alerting them to the last few hours they had together. It continued to ring out until Anna reached across Harry to shut it off. Anna pressed a good morning kiss to his lips and a smile appeared on his lips but quickly faded. “Harry, come on let’s shower…” Anna stripped them of their blankets and pulled Harry into the shower with her.

  They stood in the shower, letting the water race down their bodies as they held each other in their arms in silence. Both knowing what the day had to bring. Anna’s head was placed over his heart, hearing his heartbeat while he rested his chin on the crown of her head, running his hand through her hair in a constant motion. Harry cheekily suggested a quickie and Anna gladly accepted.

  Harry put on his army fatigues and finished packing his bag while Anna made a quick breakfast for them. They made the short drive the to RAF Brize Norton and made it discreetly to the private room his father had arranged for him.

  “Anna…” Harry began to speak, “promise me that you will take care of yourself…” Anna nodded her head while Harry’s hands cupped her face. Harry reached into his pocket and handed Anna a ticket. “I want you to be with your family at Christmas… here is a first class ticket back home. You can choose what date and time to fly out, everything is paid for and do not protest.”

  “Harry, this is way too much!” Anna attempted to hand it back to him but he refused. “Anna… you need to see your family. Go home for Christmas. Please! It will make me feel better that you will be with them.” Anna only accepted because she didn’t want Harry worrying about her, Harry needed to concentrate on his job.

  “Harry, don’t worry about me, it will only distract you and you know what they say about distracted soldiers… a-“ Harry grabbed her hands and interrupted her, “distracted soldier is a dead soldier… I know… but I still will.”

  Fitz, Harry’s PO, knocked at the door and stepped in. “Sir, you have five more minutes…” Harry nodded, “Thank you Fitz.” Harry turned to Anna who had concern splashed across her face. She held his hands looking down at their joined hands. “Harry… don’t be the hero. Just do your duty and come home to me. Please just-“ Anna let out an exaggerated exhale as the reality of it all came crashing down on her.

  Harry lifted his hands to her face wiping away her tears. “Shit… I am sorry…” Anna said in a whisper. Harry pulled her in as close as he could. “Anna… tamale… I love you… I love you so much.” Anna pulled herself together; she didn’t want his last memory of her to be breaking down in tears in front of him. Anna sighed, “I love you too ginger snap.”

  Harry and Anna’s lips met in a desire-filled kiss. They were hanging off each other’s lips trying to fit as much contact in, in the little time they had left together. Anna snaked her hand around his neck, forcefully pulling him closer as he took a breath. His hands traveled to the small of her back, applying light pressure, pushing her closer to him as his lips once again attached to hers. The kiss was urgent and felt desperate, almost like a last kiss, but Anna shook her head from that thought.

  Another knocked sounded at the door, alerting them it was time for Harry to go. The couple broke apart and rested each other’s foreheads against one another’s. Anna broke the silence, “be careful… be safe” Anna’s voice broke. “I will… I love you tamale.” Anna pressed her lips to Harry’s in a desperate attempt to lock the memory of them in her head. “I love you ginger snap… see you in four months when you come home to me.”

  Harry grabbed his bag and threw it over his shoulder and they made their way to the door with a tightened grip of each other’s hands. Harry stopped in front of the closed door and lifted Anna’s chin with his finger and leaned down to kiss her one last time. “See you soon tamale…” Harry said as he broke apart and opened the door making his way down the corridor to meet his comrades.

  Harry made it to where the rest of his unit was and said goodbye to his RPOs. “Fitz, make sure she gets home alright… make sure someone is with her please.” Fitz nodded his head in understanding. “I will sir. You take care of yourself out there. Be alert, be safe, come home.”

  Anna watched his unit head towards the aircraft from the window. Harry’s ginger hair stood out from among them, making it easy for her to catch one last glimpse of him. He stopped and turned around looking up at the window to where she stood, giving a small wave and smile to her. Anna returned it with a forced smile. She watched them take off into the sky, heading to the unforgiving war zone where they would be for the next four months, as their loved ones eagerly waited for their safe return.

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  Anna made it to her flat with Fitz in tow, keeping his promise to Harry and making sure someone was home with her that night. Sophie was waiting for her, knowing the state of mind she would be in.

  Anna walked into the flat and thanked Fitz for the ride. Anna saw Sophie and forced out another smile. She just wanted to be alone, just wanted to cry until she had no more tears left. “Anna… what do you want to do tonight?” Sophie said trying to help Anna out.

  Anna looked at her and collapsed to the ground, as she could no longer hold up this façade. Sophie came running and wrapped her hands around her, pulling her tight, letting Anna ride out the waves of her emotion.

  “Anna…I know about Harry. He told me, you can talk to me. I am here for you Anna.” Anna tightened her grip on Sophie as if she was a buoy keeping her from drowning in her tears. “He’s gone Sophie… he’s gone to war and I can keep him safe anymore…”

  “Anna, he will be alright. He will come home. I know it… he will come home.” Anna and Sophie stayed there until Anna physically couldn’t cry anymore. Anna walked into her bedroom playing with the dog tag around her neck. She stopped in her tracks when she saw a glass jar on top of her dresser. She walked closer to it.

  It was a jar full of Hershey Kisses with a sign on the front saying ‘Goodnight Kisses from Harry’ with a smaller note written at the bottom. ‘Have a kiss each night, when its empty I will be there to give you one’

  Anna smiled, she already missed him so much, but she pulled one out of the jar and had her first kiss. She made her way to her bed where the pillow Harry gave her was. Anna crawled under the covers and hugged his pillow tightly. His scent overwhelmed her and tears began to flood her eyes again. That night she cried and cried until exhaustion hit her and her eyes were so dry from crying all her tears that they shut closed.

  120 days more…