Athena

Chapter 9 - Lonely

Jackson sat in his bunk, staring blankly at the wall as his mind wandered back to Athena. He couldn't shake off the feeling of longing and nostalgia that had settled in his chest since their dinner date. He missed her already, and it had only been a few hours since they parted ways.

He thought about their conversation, replaying the moments they shared, and the kisses they exchanged. He couldn't help but smile, remembering the way she laughed and the sparkle in her eyes when she talked about their future together.

But as the night wore on, the reality of his situation crept in. He was deployed, and he wouldn't see Athena for months. The distance felt suffocating, and he couldn't help but wonder what the future held for them.

Jackson tossed and turned, his mind racing with thoughts of Athena and the life they wanted to build together. He knew he had to stay focused on his mission, but his heart was elsewhere, with the woman he loved.

Eventually, he drifted off to sleep, his dreams filled with visions of Athena and the life they would share when he returned home.

Jackson threw himself into his work, pouring all his energy into his duties. He was determined to make a difference, to serve his country with pride, and to come home to Athena as soon as possible.

But despite his focus, his mind kept wandering back to the future he and Athena had planned. He'd find himself daydreaming about the little house they'd buy, the kids they'd have, and the life they'd build together.

He'd imagine himself coaching little league, attending PTA meetings, and watching Athena grow as a mother and a wife. He'd picture their kids' birthday parties, family vacations, and lazy Sundays spent together.

These dreams sustained him, giving him the strength to keep going, even in the toughest moments. He knew that every sacrifice he made now was for their future, for the life they wanted to build together.

And so, Jackson continued to work hard, his heart fueled by the love he had for Athena.

Athena's thoughts since he left.

I watched as Jackson walked away, his backpack slung over his shoulder, his eyes locked on mine until he disappeared from sight. My heart felt heavy, like a weight was pressing down on my chest. I knew this day would come, but it didn't make it any easier.

The silence that followed was deafening. I felt lost and alone, like a part of me was missing. I wandered around my room, feeling empty and hollow. Every reminder of him– felt like a punch to the gut.

I tried to keep busy, to distract myself from the ache in my heart. I threw myself into art. I spent hours painting, But no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't shake off the feeling of emptiness.

At night, I'd lie in bed, staring at the ceiling, and wonder what Jackson was doing at that exact moment. Was he thinking of me too? Was he missing me as much as I was missing him?

The days turned into weeks, and the weeks turned into months. Time felt like a slow-moving river, and I was stuck in the middle, unable to move forward.

But even in the darkness, I held onto hope. Hope that Jackson would come back to me, that we'd build the life we dreamed of, and that our love would conquer all.

The next day she met up with her friends for drinks.

I walked into the cozy bar, scanning the room for familiar faces. That's when I spotted them - Olivia and Scott, sitting in the corner, sipping their drinks and laughing. I made my way over, feeling a sense of relief at the prospect of good company.

"Hey, guys!" I exclaimed, sliding into the booth beside them.

Olivia turned to me with a warm smile. "Athena! So glad you could make it. We've missed you."

Scott raised his glass in a toast. "To Jackson's safe return, and to getting our girl through this tough time."

I smiled, feeling a lump form in my throat. "Thanks, guys. That means a lot to me."

We spent the next few hours chatting, sharing stories, and enjoying each other's company. Olivia filled me in on the latest gossip from work, while Scott regaled us with tales of his latest adventures.

As the night wore on, I found myself feeling more relaxed than I had in weeks. It was a welcome respite from the constant worry and loneliness.

At one point, Olivia turned to me with a serious expression. "Athena, we're here for you. We know it's tough with Jackson away, but we're your support system. Don't hesitate to reach out when you need us."

I nodded, feeling grateful for their friendship. "Thanks, guys. That means everything to me."

As we finished our drinks and prepared to leave, Scott put a hand on my shoulder. "We'll get through this together, Athena. And before you know it, Jackson will be back in your arms."

I smiled, feeling a sense of hope and gratitude for the friends who had become my family.

As the weeks passed on mary approached lily once more to prepare for the wedding after jackson's return.

Mary sat in the cozy living room, surrounded by the warm glow of candles and the soft hum of conversation. She turned to Lily, her eyes shining with excitement.

"Lily, dear, I have some wonderful news to share with you!"

Lily looked up from her book, curiosity etched on her face. "What is it, Mary?"

Mary's smile grew wider. "Jackson will be returning soon, and we need to start preparing for the wedding!"

Lily's eyes widened in surprise, and she set her book aside. "Oh, Mary! That's amazing news! I'm so happy for Athena and Jackson!"

Mary nodded, her hands clasped together in delight. "I know, dear. It's been a long wait, but finally, they'll be able to start their new life together. And we get to be a part of it!"

Lily's face lit up with enthusiasm. "What can I do to help, Mary? I want to be involved in every step of the way!"

Mary's expression turned thoughtful. "Well, dear, first things first, we need to start planning the wedding. We'll need to decide on a date, a venue, the guest list... oh, and the dress! Athena will need a beautiful wedding dress, of course."

Lily's eyes sparkled with excitement. "I can help with that! I've always loved fashion, and I'd be happy to help Athena find the perfect dress."

Mary nodded, a pleased smile on her face. "That's wonderful, dear. And then there's the reception to plan – food, decorations, music... so much to think about!"

Lily nodded eagerly, her mind already racing with ideas. "I can help with that too! I've been to plenty of weddings, and I have some great ideas for decorations and music."

Mary patted Lily's hand, her eyes shining with gratitude. "Thank you, dear. I knew I could count on you. We'll work together to make this the most beautiful and memorable wedding for Athena and Jackson."

As they chatted and planned, the room seemed to fill with joy and anticipation. The thought of Jackson's return and the upcoming wedding brought a sense of hope and happiness to the little community.

Lily's face glowed with excitement as she thought about the wedding. "It's going to be a beautiful celebration, Mary. Athena and Jackson deserve all the happiness in the world."

Mary nodded, her voice filled with emotion. "They do, dear. And we're going to make sure their special day is one they'll cherish forever."