It was two days after Christmas and time for Dalton to leave. Leaning against his SUV Dalton held Misty against his chest. "I'm coming back in a month." He murmured into her hair.
Misty sniffed. "It was supposed to be two weeks."
Dalton smiled. "My schedule changed. I know you are not happy, but Misty, you need to take this time to mourn."
Misty didn't want to say goodbye. She was terrified of goodbyes now. Her heart was in her eyes as she looked up into his face. "I can't say goodbye."
Dalton touched her cheek. "Then say 'see you later.' I am less than three hours away. I promise that if they change my schedule again, I will drive here on my day off even if it means I turn around and go back that day."
Misty laid her head back on his chest. She closed her eyes and tried to absorb his strength. She felt his chin on the top of her head. She heard his heart beating. She knew she had a special place in that heart. Misty also knew it was time for her to make sure Dalton had a place in her heart. A place he could be cherished.
Dalton felt her calm. He was not sure what her thoughts were, but whatever they were he could feel a peace settle over her. He kissed the top of her head and then pulled away. "I have to go."
Misty reached up and touched his face. "I need you to go."
Dalton smiled gently. "I know. If it helps my heart hurts a bit too."
Misty put her forehead on his chest. "It helps just a little."
Dalton kissed the top of her head one more time and pulled away. He opened his car door and got in. "I'll call you when I get there and every chance I get after that. Don't stop talking to me Misty. Whatever you are going through I want to know."
Misty nodded through the tears. "I will tell you everything. Thank you for letting me and thank you for letting Jamie stay with me."
Dalton put his SUV into drive. He looked at Misty one last time and did the hardest thing he had ever been asked to do in his life. He drove away from the woman that had finally captured his heart.