Love on Leave

by Leah McDonnell

  I knew better than to open the present in front of my brothers, so I wait until we're done with breakfast and safely back in my room before opening it. The curiosity is killing me as I had to sit there, staring at it through the entire meal. Yet helping to relieve some of my earlier concerns about Max not calling.

  I flip the package over and slowly peel the paper off. Confusion sets in as I see an ingredients list and a calorie chart. What the heck is this? I think, ripping off the remainder of the paper. My hand flies to my mouth as the words register in my brain.

  “Griffin’s Candy Shop–Gatlinburg’s Award-Winning Pecan Turtles.”

  I flip open the small folded card taped to the top…

  I know how much you loved these…

  Merry Christmas,

  D-

  CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO

  New Year’s Eve

  I’ve spent the last six days in emotional turmoil. No matter how hard I try, I can’t stop thinking about Davis and it’s starting to piss me off. He’s always there! Needling in the back of my head like an annoying gnat I can’t shoo away. I could beat the living shit out of my brothers right now. My only hope is when I see Max today, it will help reset my brain back to its original Davis disdain programming. Reminding myself Max has done as much, if not more, incredible things as Davis. So what he bought me chocolates? Max drove all the way to the beach to spend one night with me. Possibly the most romantic thing anyone has ever done for me.

  “You’re awfully quiet today,” Lana says, noticing I’ve barely spoken since we got on the road to Columbus. “Everything ok?”

  “Yeah,” I smile. “A little nervous about tonight, I guess.”

  “Don’t be nervous! It’s going to be a fairy tale come true,” she beams. “We will be the hottest three chicks there. Of course, I’m Cinderella and you two are the wicked stepsisters,” she winks and grins.

  “So the guys are picking us up from Ashley’s?” I ask, trying to make some shred of conversation.

  “Oh! I completely forgot to tell you. Santos rented a limo!” she squeals. “I told him it was probably a good thing because there’s no way in hell all these big ass ball gowns would fit in a regular size car.”

  “That’s awesome! We’ll be rolling up like big shits!”

  She throws her hand up for a fist bump. “Damn right we will!”

  It’s five o’clock and it looks as if the Ms. America pageant is being hosted right smack in the middle of Ashley’s apartment. Makeup, hair rollers, dresses, slips, and pantyhose are strewn under a cloud of hairspray and perfume.

  “So who all’s riding with us?” I ask, trying my best to sound nonchalant.

  Ashley slips her gown over her head. “It’s just us six.”

  “Really? I thought maybe Jackson and Gigi might be joining us. Or Davis...”

  “Jackson’s still on leave, so they won’t be there. Davis is going, but not with us.”

  I grab my hairbrush. “He taking Goldie Locks?” I ask, casually.

  “Nope. He’s actually dating someone now.”

  Lana joins the conversation. “Crazy, huh?”

  “Oh, I met her! Her names Cherish and she’s a sweetheart!” Ash adds.

  “Artie said she’s very pretty too,” Lana says, slipping on red heels that match her gown perfectly.

  He’s dating someone? Since when does he date? And what the hell kind of name is “Cherish?” What is she? A fucking greeting card?

  “And speaking of Davis,” Ash says, pulling me from my thoughts. “Wasn’t that the sweetest Christmas gift ever?”

  My brow crinkles.

  “Oh, it was!” Lana beams. “Absolutely the best chocolates on the planet!”

  My heart sinks a little, but try to not let it show.

  “He sent y’all turtles too?”

  “We all got a box. He had ours shipped all the way to Artie’s house in Oregon.”

  “Who knew he was such a nice guy after all!” Ashley adds.

  After the news of someone new and finding out the chocolates weren’t only for me, I begin to feel like a complete moron. See! He doesn’t like me. I could kill James and Eric for even putting the notion in my head.

  “It was sweet of him. But don’t let him fool you. He’s still an asshole, ladies!” I say, headstrong.

  “Who knows? Maybe this new lady in his life is bringing out the best in him.”

  The doorbell rings as the three of us rush to finish getting dressed. “Dammit, Kate! I knew I should have snagged that dress. You look amazing!” Lana says.

  “We all look amazing!” I shout. Finally finding a burst of excitement knowing Max is here and my mind is back to who is supposed to be on.

  “Hello?” Santos asks, cracking the door open. “Can we come in?”

  “Of course!” Ash shouts as we make our way down the apartment hall.

  Standing in the living room, the six of us stare at each other. I had envisioned this moment a hundred times, but nothing could have prepared me for how exceptional they look. Especially Max, who fits perfectly in his tailored dark blue jacket with gold buttons and cords.

  “You look amazing, Max!”

  “You too, babe! Wow!”

  “Pleased?” I ask, making a turn in the middle of the room.

  “Pleased doesn’t even come close to describing how beautiful you look. I’m in awe.”

  It’s exactly the reaction I was hoping, and it helps settle the reservations I’ve had about him in an instant.

  “Ladies, you all look beautiful,” Artie says. “We will be the three most envied men in Columbus tonight!”

  Santos opens the door. “Shall we?”

  A bottle of chilled champagne and six crystal flute glasses awaits, as we pile into the limo. We watch Artie pop the cork, handing a glass over, one by one.

  Max grabs my hand and gives it a little squeeze. “Guess what?”

  “What?” I ask, curious about this look he’s giving.

  He whispers, “I love you,” and places a gentle kiss on my exposed shoulder, right above my scar.

  My eyes widen; his words catching me off guard. I’m at a loss for words as butterflies dance in my belly. He’s never said it out loud like this and it leaves me feeling more panic than peace.

  “You never told me how you got this,” he says, kissing my scarred shoulder.

  Before I have a chance to respond, Artie begins a toast, interrupting the moment.

  “To an amazing night and to having the three most beautiful women on our arm!”

  “Cheers to that!” Santos concurs as the group clinks glasses together.

  It’s early, but the parking lot is already full as the limo creeps towards the front of the Community Center. The line to go in is backed through the front doors.

  “This is so exciting!” Lana squeals as we file out of the car.

  Max grabs my hand to help me out, noticing I’m fumbling with my dress.

  “Thank you.”

  We make our way to the front steps. “Uhhhh, is that a receiving line?” Lana asks, pointing to the long line of officers at the banquet room door.

  Artie tries not to laugh. “Baby, I told you you’d be meeting my Superiors.”

  “You did. But failed to mention it would be the first thing we did and all of them at one time!” she says, fanning her armpits.

  All three of them laugh at the worry plastered across our faces. “It’s no big deal. We promise!” Max assures. “Shake hands and smile pretty. It’s that easy.”

  He was right. It was simple introductions that got easier as we filed through the line of distinguished officers and dignitaries, all draped in metals. An attendant directs us to a photo area, complete with backdrops and cheesy props.

  “Now this is more like it!” Lana jokes, jumping straight into her best prom pose.

  “Look! There’s Davis!” Santos announces, pointing to the last photography station.

  Standing in front of a baby blue background and a hideous fake colum
n, Davis and his date pose for the camera. He looks incredible in his uniform; the perfect depiction of a real-life Prince Charming. Trying not to stare, I force my eyes off him to size up his date, who’s as beautiful as he is.

  The photographer asks them to gaze at each other instead of the camera. He’s looking at her affectionately, and it sends a charge of envy coursing through my veins. He whispers something in her ear and it makes her laugh, as the photographer snaps a picture. They look amazing together and it affects me deeper than I’d like to admit.

  After our turn in front of the camera, we make our way into the ballroom. The lights are dim as white tulle and twinkle lights swoop and zigzag across the ceiling. Rows of long tables draped with white linens and beautiful New Year’s Eve themed floral arrangements line the room. A podium with the US Army emblem and a DJ table are set up in each corner of the stage. Silver confetti sprinkles across the large dance floor as hundreds of balloons hover in a net above, awaiting their midnight descend.

  Max spots Cooper from across the room and waves. “There’s Cooper! He’s saving everyone seats.”

  “Oh good!” I say, giving my own wave. “If you don’t mind, I think I’m going to run to the ladies' room before we settle in for dinner, if that’s ok?” I point back through the ballroom doors.

  He smiles. “Of course! I’ll meet you over there.” He gives me a quick kiss before rushing over to the table, full of boisterous comrades.

  Artie and Lana are finishing their pictures and I take the opportunity to snag her. “Mind if I steal your date, Artie? You know how us girls always have to pee in pairs!” I attempt to sound casual, while internally freaking the hell out.

  I grab Lana by the arm and pull her into the ladies' room. “What’s wrong?” she asks, knowing something’s up.

  “Max told me he loves me,” I blurt.

  “Aww, Kate! That’s wonderful!” she says, grabbing at her heart.

  “Is it?”

  “Max is amazing! Look at everything you’ve both gone through to get here. You’re finally getting everything you ever wanted. Why the hell are you questioning it?”

  I shake away the worry, bound and determined to not overthink this.

  “You’re right. You’re absolutely right!” I say, adjusting the top of my dress in the mirror.

  “It’s just nerves,” she says, smoothing a piece of loose hair in the back of my head. “Falling in love is scary! Trust me, I know. If it were easy, there wouldn’t be such a thing as heartache. But for true, unconditional, heart-pounding, knees weakening, do anything for each other type of love… it’s a risk worth taking.”

  I grab each side of the sink and close my eyes. I let out a long, deep breath to calm myself. “I feel better now. Thank you.” I wrap my arms around her. “I guess all I needed was a best friend pep talk.”

  “That’s right! Now go out there and get your man!”

  The Color guard is lined up in the lobby, queuing the opening ceremony. Lana and I slip in quietly, as the attendees rise for the Posting of the Colors. Goosebumps shoot down my arms as the soldiers march across the room, carrying flags to their designated post, followed by the singing of the National Anthem. It was awe-inspiring to watch these amazing servicemen we’ve come to know and love, honor and respect the moment in such a gracious manner.

  After an incredible speech by the Commander and about a dozen toasts later, the buffet line is finally open. It brings a close to the formalities of the night, allowing the New Year’s Eve festivities to officially begin.

  “Now it’s time to get this party started!” a soldier yells across the room, causing the entire hall to erupt in celebration.

  “Ready to eat?” Max asks.

  “Absolutely! I’m starved!”

  He leads me on his arm through the crowd of people and it was exactly as I’d imagined. I smile pretty as heads begin to turn.

  “They’re all staring at you,” he whispers. “Jealous their dates aren’t as hot as mine.”

  My face flushes. “I’m sure it’s the dress, Max. But thank you.”

  The line for food is long and I’m already regretting my shoe choice the longer we wait. Every few seconds, friends of Max’s walk up and have typical boyish banter hellos, along with the respectful date introductions. Leaving me to make idle chit chat with each one’s boring wife or girlfriend.

  I spot Artie, Lana, and Ashley and Santos, further back in line. I consider waving them up but fear the stink eye from the rest of the line.

  Max continues gabbing with friends like high school girls, as we make our way through the buffet. Making sure to check on me every few minutes, trying to include me in the conversations as much as possible.

  “So you’re the infamous Alpharetta girl we’ve been hearing so much about?” A dapper older gentleman asks.

  Max says. “Kate, I would like you to meet my Commanding Officer, Captain Michael Mooney.”

  “It’s a pleasure to meet you, sir.”

  “You said she was beautiful, Maxwell, but that didn’t do her justice,” Capt. Mooney says, causing me to blush.

  “I’ve heard about all those crazy adventures you’ve all been on. It helps this old married codger live vicariously through these young bucks,” he says, grabbing Max by the shoulder.

  “Oh, I bet they’ve embellished things a tad. We’re pretty boring ninety-five percent of the time," I tease.

  Four more introductions later, we’re finally back at the table and grateful to give my aching feet some relief. While Max reminisces about old Army stories with the table, I catch myself scanning the room for Davis. I shouldn’t be, but I’m a tad disappointed he’s nowhere to be found.

  I’m finished with my meal by the time the rest of our group joins us. All victims of the same delays Max and I were.

  “It’s about time y’all got here!” I say, thankful for familiar faces.

  “Thank God we’re not being tested on who’s who, because I lost track after the hundredth person,” Lana huffs.

  “No kidding!” Ashley adds. “I don’t know how you guys keep up!”

  I take the last swig of my wine as they dig into their meals. “I’m going to run to the bar. Anyone need a refill?”

  Before I’m out of the seat, I’ve got orders for three beers and a jack and coke. I’m in the bar line as the DJ fires up the music, causing another celebratory outbreak.

  I glance towards the doorway and spot Davis. He sees me and it sends a charge of unexpected nerves to rush through me.

  He’s walking over. His gaze drops to my dress, then back up. His face indifferent and cold, as if I’m a total stranger.

  “Sup, Skeeter?” he says, flatly.

  He hasn’t called me that in months and it catches me off guard. “Oh...I’m...I’m good, Lurch. How are you?”

  “I’m fantastic!” he says, stoically. “Other than my poor date getting her hair caught in my metals.” He waves his hands around his head. “She’s in the bathroom having to get it all primped back up.”

  “I saw you guys earlier. When you were having your pictures made. She’s pretty.”

  “Damn right she is. She’s fuckin’ beautiful.”

  The bartender stacks the drinks on the bar as I wait for his typical rude, female degrading punchline, but it doesn’t come. Damn, I guess he actually likes this one. He didn’t make one sexist remark. It’s a first and I’m not sure how to feel about it.

  “Three Bud Lights, a Jack and Coke, and a glass of Pinot Grigio,” the bartender says, staking them across the counter.

  “Damn, Skeeter! Looks like Max will be holding your hair back tonight.”

  I open my mouth to speak, but the words don’t come out. Swallowing hard as I stare up at him.

  “I thought you might need some help,” Santos says, tapping his elbow to mine.

  “Huh?” Snapping me out of my internal torment.

  “Carrying the beers?” he repeats.

  As I turn to grab the drinks from the bar, I hear Davi
s say, “There’s my girl!” and it’s like taking a bullet. I close my eyes to gain my composure before turning around. Lord, please don’t make me have to meet her. Pleaseeee!

  “Kate… I want you to meet Cherish.”

  I glance at the ceiling. You couldn’t help me out this one time, Lord?

  I screw on a smile and turn around. Thankful my hands are full so I don’t have to shake her “beautiful” fucking hand.

  “Hiiii,” I say, desperately trying not to sound condescending. “It’s nice to meet you. I’ve heard such great things about you!”

  She throws Davis a loving smile, and it makes me want to barf. “Thank you, Kate! You too! Davis goes on and on about you guys!”

  So I’m just one of the “guys” now, huh?

  “Amazing dress, by the way. You look stunning!” she says with a sweet smile. Making me want to punch her in her perfect white teeth and hug her at the same time.

  “Sorry I can’t shake your hand,” I say, motioning to the glasses. “It appears I’m playing bartender tonight.”

  I glance up at Davis, trying my best to play it cool. “I better get these back to the crew before good ole Jack ruins my dress.”

  By the time I return, everyone’s finished with their meals and has moved from old Army stories to the night we first met. “Yep! We thought long and hard about driving the car straight into the ocean,” Max says, causing everyone to laugh.

  “I would have gone and gotten those, silly woman!” Max says as I sit. “I turned around and you were gone.”

  “Oh, I didn’t mind. You guys were enjoying yourselves. I didn’t want to interrupt.”

  “Thankfully, Davis is head over heels for Cherish or I might have gotten all worried when I saw y’all chatting,” he teases.

  “Nope,” I say, wryly. “Nothing to worry about. He’s still annoying as ever.”

  “Speak of the devil!” Max says, standing to shake Davis’s hand. “It’s about time you two joined us!”

  “We were actually coming to get you assholes on the dance floor.”

  “Hell yeah!” Lana shouts. “I’m ready to get my boogie on with my honey!”