things you said

... in writing

The plane ride took hours and the drive to my hometown took even longer. I was back just in time for my sister's graduation from high school, an event she was both dreading and excited for. I took a week from my job, my boss readily accepting and wishing me the best.
My family greeted me with open arms, excited that I was back home. They prepared dinner and I talked, talked about you and the great things we've done that don't seem grand to anyone other than us. Regardless, I continued to sing praises about you because it's all I know how to do.
The graduation came and passed, and it was exciting and emotional, but I missed you dearly. You texted me every so often, but I knew how busy and demanding your job was.
It was just a few days in when my dad told me that a letter had come for me with 'barely legible English', and I couldn't hold back my grin.
I quickly opened your letter, taking note of the little heart covering the lip of the envelope.
My heart swelled with adoration when I read the first words in your letter.
'I hope you and your family are doing well!'
I quickly took a picture of myself holding your letter, sending it to you with a little heart emoji.
I laughed when you responded with
'I had to send that before you even left, babe, and do you know how hard it is to write in English?'
I sent back an emoji with its tongue sticking out, followed by a
'Do you know how hard it was for me to become fluent in your language?'
I could almost see his smile from halfway across the world.