Wake up. Chest pain.
Eat breakfast. Shortness of breath.
Go to work. Weakness.
Bedtime. Fear of not waking up.
Living with a heart condition was already bad enough. Living with a heart condition and not having the proper funds to cover it was the ab...
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Ashford, South Maddison ||Wednesday||
I stood with my right hand pressed against my forehead in salute while the three caskets were lowered into the ground and Taps played in honor of our fallen soldiers. Slightly above the trumpet, I heard the cries of family members and did my best to not give them attention. Not until the song and service was over. As soon as it as, and it was nearing the end, I was going to do what I do best. I doubt there's anything these families wanted to hear after burying their loved ones. If I was in their position, I wouldn't want to hear jack, so I was going to keep it at a minimum.
The service concluded after the memorial flags were handed off to the respective families. Right after, I took the lead, heading to the families and giving my condolences to them one by one. Shaking hands, giving apologies, and informing them that the military personals were available to help. None of them looked impressed by anything we were saying and I didn't blame them. I gave my last handshake and thank you then was finished. I exhaled deeply while parting from the rest, removing my hat and running my hand over my hair.
"Sin!" I heard my call name and turned around to see Dash hurrying to me. "Beer?"
There was no need for much thought about it as I was quick to accept his offer. I needed a drink to let loose and calm my nerves. Also a good way to distract myself from these negative thoughts. Getting into my car, I started the engine and followed behind Dash to a bar that was close by. Him and I weren't the only ones with the idea of getting a drink as I saw other soldiers pulling into the lot. I didn't blame them in the slightest. Entering the establishment, I took a seat at the counter with Dash sitting beside me.
"What can I get you fellas?" The bartender asked.
"How strong can you make your Old Fashioned?" I asked, making her lightly chuckle. I didn't think what I was saying was remotely funny but I said nothing of it.
"I'll make it strong just for you," she responded and I thanked her.
While I waited, I reached inside my pocket and pulled out my journal. I always kept one on me just in case I needed to let a few things out. I have big notebooks, medium sized, and even pocket sized ones. When it was needed then it was needed, and right now it sure as hell was.
"How are you feeling?" Dash asked, nudging my arm to get my attention.
It took me a second to respond since I retrieved my drink and felt the bartender graze her fingers over mine. I caught the flirtatious wink she sent my way then glanced down at my drink. I checked over it to ensure it wasn't messed with. I doubt she did anything to it and was simply being flirtatious. It was nice and all, but not something I was in the mood to deal with right now.
