1Doing What's Right
"Why?" I asked him, clenching my hands and glaring at the bench we were sitting on. I willed myself not to cry, as I focused my gaze on a baby bird taking flight. God, I wanted to be that bird, with no complications, wishing I could just fly away.
We sat there, seemingly close but worlds apart. I wanted to touch him but couldn't move.
"I'm sorry, but I don't regret it," he whispered back looking ahead, his back stiff. His hands were also clenched into fists.
I looked at him sadly,
"You can't leave me!" I burst out
He didn't even look surprised. Instead, he finally turned towards me, his eyes pained.
"You know I have to do what's right for this country, I have to leave."
His voice suddenly turned hard
"I don't want you to wait for me. I don't even know if I'll make it…..It's over."
"No," I shook my head furiously,
"I'll wait, I…I don't want to lose you! The war will be over soon enough, and you'll come home! Why? Why are you putting us through this?" I shouted, angry hurt but most of all scared.
"I love you," I stated barely above a whisper.
I knew he heard me but the sharp intake of his breath.
"….I told you, I'm doing what's right…"
With that he got up, his movements stiff, his head bent low and forever he walked out of my life.
I sat there quietly for I don't know how long. Hugging my knees tightly, I finally let a tear escape, and asked no one
"…But what about doing what's right for us…"