Love, Kookie

Letter # 6

"My beautiful, beautiful Lana,

Only you could make this day better than it already is. I found out today that I might get to go home sooner than both of us thought. They might still need me, though, and I'll be stationed somewhere further from the city, but I can only hope I'll get to see you again before too long.

A bunch of new recruits came in today. A few of them stuck out to me, a very optimistic guy named Hoseok, and a shy kid who's name I think is Taehyun. I think you'd really like this Hoseok guy. He told me to call him J-Hope. He's very good at bringing our spirits up. Of course, no one could be as good as you.

You've changed so much since we first met. You really came out of your shell, and no matter how many times you claimed it was because of me, I think you know how much you've grown. Just don't change too much while I'm gone, cheese, you're perfect the way you are.

Love, Kook"

I've been staring at the words on the page for who knows how long. It took me hours to get through this one. I check the time. It's nearly four in the morning.
A knock on the door startles me. It's Mrs. Jeon. She's come to stay with us for the next week or two. This time of year is going to be particularly hard for all of us.

"Sorry, sweetheart. I didn't think you'd still be up." She smiles at me, but it doesn't reach her eyes.

"I was just reading." I tell her. "I'm heading to bed now." I stand up to face her and I regret it as I realize the light from my desk lamp illuminates my tears.

"Oh, sweetie." She envelops me in a hug and I try my hardest not to soak her shirt with my tears.

"I'm sorry." I croak. "I just miss him. So much."

"I know, I know." She smooths my hair, a gesture Jungkook would always do. "Believe me, I miss him too."