In the semi–darkness,

The pebbles look like beans.

Laughter used to accompany me

Now silent by my side.

The sun hasn’t risen yet,

The wind cool on my face

Sitting down by the sandy grave I greeted,

“Hello darling, it’s been a while”

I poured her favorite coffee,

Placed it by the stone

I took a sip, savoring its vanilla notes.

Reminding me of her,

I could still hear her thanks

Smiling brightly ...

“Sarah”

The grocery bag dropped.

“….Terence?” She froze. Her hands were balled into fists, knuckles white. There stood a soldier, dressed neatly in the pink and greens; an army dress uniform. A ghost from the army.

He stepped forward, “I….”

“Stop,” she said firmly. He halted hesitantly.

Fighting back her tears. “They told me you were dead,” Her voice shaking. “We refused to believe it, but ...