Happily looking forward to this new life we were giving each other, we were unprepared for what came next. Slipping away from the kids, Billy decided to treat me to lunch on a rare weekend off. Sitting on the table between us, his cell phone rang. Glancing at the number he gave it a puzzled look, it was from his National Guard Unit. Answering, I could only hear his side of the conversation.
     "Sergeant ****"
     "Yes, sir." Nodding to no one, "I see."
     "I will, sir, and I understand." I saw his face transform from happily relaxed to stricken, as the color slowly seeped from his face.
     "Thank you, sir, I will."
     He lowered the phone and s...

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