Deployment and Reunion

Thoughts drifted into her mind as fast as the large snowflakes drifting down before her as she trudged from the airport parking garage to the terminal. The deployment began in late spring although it seemed more like a year since they had been together. So much had happened during those months; she was eager to share. Phone calls, emails and letters deliver messages through words but it is just not the same. Some sharing has to be done in person; eye to eye, heart to heart.

It was a short walk to the terminal but the thoughts racing through her mind were many; the walk seemed even shorter. Now she had to read the signs, find the right floor; find the area where they could be reunited. These facts took over her thoughts as she found her way to the roped off area where she could anxiously await his arrival. There were already many family members of other troops lining the rope. She found a spot to stand where she could see the doorway that would eventually be filled with passengers; the returning troops among them.

She could also see the area where the planes taxied up to the gate. She would be able to watch as the plane approached. At that time she was grateful for every inch of height she had. She had often felt too tall growing up and envied her petite friends. But now she was glad to be able to see not only the door over the heads of many in front of her but also through the window beyond. An announcement brought cheers from the small group as they learned that the plane had landed.

Her thoughts landed with the plane and returned to the event at hand. They would be reunited in minutes. She watched for the plane to approach the gate. As she watched she could almost feel his hand touch hers. She could imagine his fingers gently grasping hers and moving them forward. She had longed for that touch for months now. She had missed the touch, the closeness, the intimacy, the sharing of life.

She suddenly saw the plane approaching the gate. She ran her fingers though her hair. Should she have stopped to check her makeup? She didn't have time now but a quick pursing of her lips would bring a little color to them. She tucked the strap of her purse onto her shoulder to free her hands. The door opened and passengers began to pass through. She strained to see as many passengers faces as she could. People were hugging and laughing as they met. Couples and families were leaving to find their way home.

Suddenly her eyes met his. He was just approaching the doorway. Her heart raced as he walked towards her. There it was; the touch. His hands grasped hers and gently pulled her towards him. They embraced and the kiss began the reunion she awaited. The deployment was over. The reunion began. There was so much to share.