My Penpal

22- Debate

Three months had passed since Alexander’s departure, and Amelia felt the weight of his absence grow heavier with each passing day. Though they had talked often, it wasn’t the same as having him there, holding her, teasing her with that easy smile. As Thanksgiving approached, her heart longed for him more than ever.

She and Blake were busy decorating the house for the big family gathering, both throwing themselves into the work to distract from the ache of missing him. Blake was stringing up fairy lights while Amelia arranged autumn-colored garlands along the fireplace. The warm, inviting atmosphere they were creating helped soothe some of the loneliness, though not completely.

"Ugh, Macy is unbearable today," Blake muttered as he fiddled with the lights. "If I have to hear one more complaint about how she thinks the decorations should look, I might actually lose it."

Amelia let out a sigh. Macy had been a constant thorn in their side lately, her sharp remarks and snide comments making everything ten times more difficult. They both tried to ignore her, but today it was harder than usual.

"Just let her say what she wants, Blake," Amelia said, forcing a small smile. "She’ll tire herself out eventually."

Blake grumbled something under his breath, clearly not as patient as Amelia when it came to Macy. "You’re too nice, Baby Cakes."

Amelia laughed softly at his nickname for her, but before she could respond, her father walked into the room. His eyes scanned the decorations with approval, nodding to himself before turning to her.

"Is Alexander still coming?" he asked, his voice hopeful.

Amelia smiled, the mention of Alexander bringing a warmth to her chest despite the distance between them. "Yes, Dad. He promised he’d be here for Thanksgiving," she said, her voice steady, though inside she was anxious, hoping nothing would prevent him from keeping that promise.

Her father smiled back, satisfied with her answer. "Good. It’ll be nice to have him here. He’s a good man."

Blake snorted playfully from the other side of the room. "Of course, he’s coming. Can’t leave my Baby Cakes hanging, can he?"

Amelia rolled her eyes at Blake, but there was affection behind it. "I’m sure he wouldn’t dare."

As they continued with the decorations, Amelia’s thoughts drifted to Alexander. The countdown had begun—soon, he’d be back in her arms, and she couldn’t wait for that moment.

Her heart swelled with both excitement and nervousness. Would everything be the same? Would they fall back into their rhythm, or would things feel different after months apart? She shook off the worry and focused on the garland she was hanging, determined to stay positive.

Alexander had never broken a promise to her before. And she believed with everything in her that this time would be no different.

As if on cue, the sound of the back door sliding open drew everyone’s attention. Amelia turned around, her breath catching in her throat. There he was—Alexander, standing tall in his military uniform, his presence commanding yet comforting all at once. The sunlight streamed through the glass, casting a glow around him as if he’d stepped out of a dream.

Her heart swelled with a mix of relief and joy as she took in the sight of him. He was finally home.

Amelia’s family members exchanged surprised glances before all eyes focused on Alexander. He stood with his usual composed expression, but his gaze softened the moment it found hers. She barely had time to react before her father, always the first to welcome him, crossed the patio with a broad grin.