Chapter 6
Tyler
Dear Indy,
Or should I really be addressing this letter to my wife? I won’t lie—it’s still surreal to me that we’re married. Does it still catch you by surprise sometimes?
Thanks for sending me the postcard with the update. I love that you’re in California. I’ve always wanted to visit. I can’t wait to hear more about what it’s like now that you’re living there.
I had to fill some paperwork out when I arrived on base and I found myself having to pause because it still leaves me dumbfounded.
I think it will take time to wrap my head around what we did.
I promise, that’s not my way of saying I regret any of it.
I’m glad I could help and I hope you’re able to get the care you need for your health issues.
When we went our separate ways after your mom found out about us hanging out, I thought that was it between us.
To have our friendship back feels surreal.
Looking at us, no one would guess we fit; two mismatched puzzle pieces.
Yet, here we are, our edges blending as one, coming together perfectly, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I think that’s what I always liked about being friends before.
At school, no one suspected we were close.
I never cared that we kept our meetups to ourselves.
I liked having something between us that no one could partake in.
All my other friends weren’t the best influence, but you were always different.
Unlike my parents and the administrators at the school, you never passed me off. You saw me. You see me.
How is everything going on the west coast? Are you feeling any better? Did you get any answers? I hope you’ve gotten some treatment and found a doctor that can help you out.
What’s the plan with school? Last we spoke that night I was in Nevada, you were going to start life on your own, financially.
I know it’s overwhelming to think about and I just want you to know how proud I am of you for taking this initiative and standing up for yourself.
It’s hard, but as you get used to everything there, I’m sure it will get better.
Boot camp is challenging, but it’s been worth it. I’ve been making friends with some of the guys here and I’ve felt like it’s been a true brotherhood. Georgia is incredibly humid compared to Vegas.
I knew that coming into this it would be hot, but when we’re running in the middle of the day with all our gear, it’s a whole new level of sweat.
I won’t go into detail, but damn, Indy; I never knew heat like this.
It's so muggy here compared to back home. It feels like we’re living close to the sun.
I love the idea of writing letters with you. I hope things are starting to adjust well for you.
Your pen pal husband,
Ty