Our Recovery|Away at War

Chapter 1- Returning Home

18 years later...

I woke up as the rain crashed against the window, the drops sliding down as fast as the lightening which struck, as the wind blew violently outside. Sighing, I looked over to the clock, seeing it was seven am. I got up, walking towards the window, to see the sea's waves at least two metres high, crashing against the rocks in the storm. ''Great.'' I mumbled, pulling on my robe.

I walked into the kitchen, checking the calendar and seeing the date, August Twenty Third. Suddenly, it clicked- how could I have forgotten? Finn was coming home today, after three months away, training as an officer. Oh how I'd missed him. Every other day, he used his one phone call to call me and make sure I was alright. At first it was hard, being alone- but it had gotten easier the longer he stayed away. I was just happy he wasn't involved in any combat in the East, like my best friend Thomas was.

Finn joined the army when he turned twenty four, three years ago, when there was no threat of him actually needing to go to war. But recently, with the rioting starting in the East, he'd been going away for severe training more and more. I missed him so much, every single day- but I knew he'd come back to me. Today, he was due back around two pm, his mother and my family were coming over for a small 'welcome home' party, and I just couldn't wait for him to be in my arms again.

We were meant to be going down to the beach, but judging by the weather, I suppose it would have to wait for another day. Getting excited upon his arrival, I started to pin up the banners, getting giddier and giddier that I'd finally be able to see him again. It was so hard when he had to go, we were all set on finally starting a little family of our own, but time after time they kept getting put on hold.

After I'd made the place 'party ready', I jumped into the shower, lathering up the bubbles, and letting the soap drip down me, relaxing. My mind flickered back to the first night in this house, where Finn and I showered together as we still hadn't figured out how to keep the hot water on for longer than half an hour. I closed my eyes, remembering his touch on mine, and how much I craved it again. His fingers caressing my back, as he pushed me up against the damp tiled walls, gently biting my bottom lip. Turning off of the shower, I quickly dried my hair, letting it fall loose in its natural chestnut curls.

I walked to our wardrobe, where all of Finn's clothes were neatly hung up, the hangers collecting dust- picking out a pastel blue dress. Everyone always said that when I wore blue, it brought out my sapphire eyes, hence why I chose this one. It came just above my knee, with a lacy detail around the bust, and slim, silk straps fitting just right on my shoulders. Putting on my shoes, I grabbed a raincoat before picking up my car cars, running outside to my car, as the rain pelted against my body. Once I was safe inside, I drove further into the village to the restaurant, who was catering for the party.

My head was ducked low, as I ran into the building, where I was shielded from the rain. ''Ah Willow, I was wondering when you were getting here.'' Mrs Pascell said. ''I have all your stuff boxed up ready, would you like my son to help you take them to your car love?''

''That would be great thanks.'' I smiled. ''How much do I owe you?'' I asked, as she shouted back for her son.

''Your Finn is doing something wonderful for this country, so you owe me nothing. Think of it as a welcome home gift.''

''Oh Ma'am I couln't.'' I said. Mrs Pascell shook her head, refusing to listen any further. ''Well as least let me give you a tip.'' I insisted, handing over four twenties.

''You've a good heart.'' She smiled. ''So, will we have any kiddies running about the place any time soon?'' She asked, grinning widely.

''No Mrs Pascell.'' I laughed.