But I Will Wait For You

Cassia shoved her way through the crowd. Coming to where the English soldiers stood with the recruited boys of her town. Her eyes scanned the young lads, some barely able to grow facial hair.

But her heart stopped at the sight of him. He stood several feet taller than the others, his muscles bigger and his hair lighter. "John!" she called.

He turned around to see her, his green eyes sparkling as they met her blue. She ran forward, her long blonde hair flying behind her. He pushed his way through the boys, ignoring the shouts of the soldiers.

He met her with a crushing hug. "Cassia," he breathed, taking in the sweet fragrance of her hair.

"What are you doing John?" she cried into his chest. "You said you wouldn't let them take you! You said you'd stay with me!" tears fell down her pale cheeks, but she didn't care if everyone saw.

"Cassia I'm sorry," John whispered. "It's what needs to be done," he said.

"You said we'd have a life together. You said-"

John cut her off, lifting her chin so she stared into his eyes. How she loved his eyes. "I know what I said, Cass. But if you want that, then I have to go."

Cassia felt her heart shatter at his words. "And what am I to do? Hm? I'll be wed to someone, you know this!" Her voice was firm, despite the pain in it.

John chuckled. "I think we both know by now Cass, you're too stubborn to accept just anyone."

Cassia nodded, though her eyes were still tearful. She placed a slender hand on his cheek as he did her. "Then I will wait for you, John Little. However long you are gone, I will wait."

John smiled and pressed his lips firmly to hers. She wrapped her arms about his strong neck, standing on her toes to deepen the kiss.

A gloved hand came to John's shoulder. A soldier stood there. "We need to go lad," he said.

John nodded and looked to Cassia. "I love you Cassia O'Neill," he said.

"And I love you, John Little," she replied. She watched him go with the others. And I will wait for you....my soldier....