Valentine's Writing Challenge

This is my first post on Writer’s Digest. The assignment was to write a love letter. Here is my humble submission.

His hands began to shake when he saw the neat, even, and petite print. It could only be hers. The envelope popped open without effort, the glue having dried and yellowed with time. His heart slowed, to the point he wondered if he would live. He gently pulled the paper from inside. Unfolding it his hands began to tremble to the point that he couldn’t read what she had written. Or it may have been the tears that had crowded into his eyes.

February 14, 2004

My Beloved,

I didn’t know I could miss you this much. We have only been apart for a week, but it feels like it has been forever. How am I supposed to survive a year, maybe more. Even though you have called me and I hear the smile in your voice. I need to see it. Need to see you. I need to see the light in your eyes when you laugh. I need to feel the warmth of your breath when you take me in your arms. I need to lean into your body and feel the strength that sustains me. Please be safe and I will see you soon.

Forever yours,

Tears fell now, creating perfect circles on the words. He carefully folded the paper along the creases and slid the paper back in the envelope. Returning it to its place on top of her uniform, beside her dog tags and next to the medals, he replaced the lid to the box and wept.