Home Away From Home

Chapter 25

The next day came and Valerie couldn't say goodbye at the departure like last time, she had to stay with the kids. So at the front door, Nick was in his uniform and he was hugging Valerie tightly. His babies were crying. They didn't understand what was going on, but they know their daddy was leaving. He gave Zack a hug, his babies the biggest hugs and kisses and walked over to Valerie again.

"I can't believe you're leaving." Valerie said, tears falling down her face.

"I will be back before you know it." Nick wiped them.

"You better." They kissed and hugged one last time. "I don't want to let go."

"Me neither." The cab parked out front beeped. Nick looked at Valerie. "I love you so much, baby. Know that. You have made me the happiest man alive. You gave me two beautiful children that I love so much. I have an amazing brother, and I have you. The best thing in my life. If our moms would've seen us right now they would've been dancing up and down, so happy that we're together. I will be back in 6 months, and then I will never leave you again, that's a promise." He kissed her. "I love you. I love all of you." Nick walked away, tears in his eyes. He stood next to the car door and waved goodbye. They all watched Nick get in the car and drive away. Zack went inside with Emma and Tony. Valerie stayed next to the door, crying. Zack walked back out to his sister. He hugged her tightly.

"He will be back. Do you not know Nick? He fights and fights, he will not give up. He will come back alive." Zack said.

"I can't live without him." She stared at the empty street, where he once was. She cried loudly.

"I know, sh, sh, it's okay." Zack comforted her till she calmed down. After she did, they walked back inside and she made dinner. They all sat down at the dinner table. Valerie was looking at the empty seat where Nick usually sits. Then a hand appeared on hers, she turned towards Zack. "You okay?"

"Yeah." She smiled and fed her angels, then took them to bed. She went to her bed and just went to sleep. If Nick wasn't really here, at least he could be with her in her dreams.

Nick was on the plane, on his way to his destination. The whole plane ride, he thought about his family. He finally landed and met Lieutenant Charles Miles. They shook hands.

"Nick, pleasure." Lieutenant greeted him.

"Same, sir." They started walking.

"I'm sorry you had to leave your family. I know it must be hard for you."

"It is, sir. But being in misery won't keep me alive, sir."

"And that's why you're the best on the field." They drove to the field. When they got there, Nick said hello to a couple of men he knew. Then he saw the captain.

"Sir." Nick said as he shook his hand.

"Good to have you here, Nick." The captain smiled and walked away. Nick walked into his room with the some other men and sat on his bed. He took out his picture of his family. He kissed it and put it in his pocket. He then came out and followed his duties.

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