I laugh because I’ve heard the rumors.It’s hard not to when most of those kids come hang out at the community center after school.I’ve even met Thomas a time or two.“Yeah, well, I can set some of those rumors to rest.”
“You weren’t actually a Navy SEAL?”
“No, I am.”
She cocks her head to the side.“Are you still enlisted?”
“Once a SEAL, always a SEAL,” I reply, feeling that familiar pang in my gut.I love my life now, and what I do makes a difference, but I always thought I’d get to retire as a soldier.Even though I’ve technically been out for six years, it still felt like I was enlisted until we were officially released two weeks ago.
“Got it.”Katelyn offers me another smile.“Well, I’d better get going.I need to make sure Thomas is ready for bed.”She starts toward the door, but I step in front of her.
The way she recoils confirms my suspicions, and guilt immediately snakes through me.“Sorry.”I move out of the way without hesitation, putting distance between us so she doesn’t feel caged in.“I just wanted to say thanks.For everything.You’ve done so much for me, and we don’t even know each other.”
“Kindness doesn’t need familiarity,” she replies.“I wanted to help, so I did.Goodnight, Garrison.”
“Goodnight, Katelyn.”
She heads toward the door and slips out.After crossing over, I open it and lean out, watching as she disappears into her place.Only when she’s inside do I close and lock the door.As I head back into the kitchen to rinse dishes, I note that the spare key I’d given to Anastasia for emergencies is sitting on the counter beside the trays of food.Even though I know it’s foolish, there’s a part of me that wishes Katelyn had taken it with her.