I'm Coming Home

     I wonder what my mom will say when she sees me? Will my dad throw his masculine pride aside, and give me a hug? The only times he had were when mom almost died in a car crash, and when I got the draft. I'm disappointed I didn't get to see Wally graduate, but at least I'll see his college ceremony. When an important official shook my hand and patted my shoulder, then told me how my service was appreciated, I had lifted my left arm to pat his before I realized that appendage was already gone.
     Michelle is coming home with me. I don't exactly know how that happened, but I'm not going to stop her. She doesn't look at my burns or my missing body parts. All she looks at are my eye's, and that's all I want. Before we leave, I'm learning how to use this weird claw they attached to my left wrist. I think I'm starting to get the hang of it.
   

     Michelle helped dress me in a new, shiny uniform with gleaming medals. I can't wait to take them off. They're only a reminder of what I did and didn't tell her about. My parent's know even less then she does. And that's how I'll keep it. Everyone will be happy. My mom still has her boys. Dad doesn't need to worry about saving up too much money. Wally is one step closer to being a doctor. And I... well, I certainly won't be an artist now, but I've got Michelle. She's all I need. Together, we'll heal each other. Love each other. Never mention the war again.