Pearl 28 Late that night they were all sitting down in the living room after dinner. Danny came in with a piece of paper followed closely by Jimmy. They both walked over to Iz and handed her the paper, looking up at her expectantly.
"I think you have a request there Iz." Rafe said with a laugh as she took the paper.
"Daniel, who said you could go through you aunts things." Evelyn scolded the little boy.
"I'm sorry mommy, but she promised to read one and I want her to."
"It's alright Evelyn I left the box on the bed where it was easy to get to. I am sure he didn't hurt anything. Only please ask next time alright sweetie."
"Yes Iizzy-bell."
"Mommy, please read the letter."
"Yes Mommy please." Rafe said imitating Jimmy and joining in on the pleading getting Evelyn to laugh.
"Honestly Rafe you are as bad as the children sometimes."
Still laughing Evelyn opened the letter and began to read.

Dearest Izzy-bell,
This is the hardest letter I have ever had to write you. I received a telegram from England today. Rafe was shot down and killed. I don't know much more then that and frankly I do not care to. He shot down over 6 planes while he was over there. What did he get for it nothing. Not even a proper burial.
I had to go tell Evelyn about this. He made me promise to be the one to do it. I made him promise to come back for us all. I guess that will never happen. Oh Izzy-bell I feel like a part of me has been ripped out and tossed somewhere I cannot reach.
I do not know who I am without Rafe. We watched each other's backs and you watched out for us both. I don't know who I am without Rafe, he was always there and now he is gone. I don't even know why I am here anymore. I don't know if I am here because of Rafe or because of me. This may be the ramblings of my grief, maybe I will wake tomorrow and feel differently. Who knows? I want to tell you something I am not sure that I did before so here it goes. I know you are growing into a beautiful young woman. I want you to know that no matter what Rafe would be proud of you. So am I.
Love,
Danny

Rafe got up and hugged Iz once she finished the letter. He softly said, " I am"

The End.

Don't worry the story is not over look for the next chpter of this saga titled Next.

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