Letters to Josh

seven

Josh,

You're in the hospital right now. It's been hours since I've seen you.

#16 of the tigers was running full speed. You tried to get the ball from him, but he was just a little too fast. He was bigger than you, too. About two times bigger than you. I was already down the bleachers. Allison was right next to me. 

They stopped the game because you wouldn't get up. The guy ran all the way to the touchdown line without fail because your teammates were already by your side. I was there about 2 minutes later. They almost told me to go away, but I wasn't going anywhere. 

They flashed a flashlight in your eyes and moved your face around. You didn't even grunt. You didn't make a sound. Your heart was too slow. Something was up. 

When they put you on the flat bed, I walked with you. Smith had to convince the people to let me go with you. He came as well. He was on the other side of you, by your feet. I was next to your head.

They wouldn't let me touch you. They kept putting things into your arm. I wish I had paid attention more in CNA. 

We took forever to get to the hospital. When we did come, they made me and Smith wait out in the waiting room. 

Smith took a seat next to me and hugged me. I wasn't crying though. I knew you wouldn't want me to cry. You made me promise not to cry. I remember that day too.

"Kaylee, this year it's rumored that teams are going to be tougher this year. I have this feeling that if a huge 300 pound guy tackles me, I'm not going to just walk away." 

"What are you talking about? You're indestructible!" You laughed.

"I'm just saying, don't shed tears, I'll walk away from it as soon as I can."  

You kissed my forehead and I promised you. 

You're going to walk away, Josh. I know it. 

- Kaylee...