Chapter eleven

Abbigail

Beth has been distant since Melanie told us Shawn was shot on the return to base. I can't say I blame her, I would be distant too if it were Melanie. Since we arrived back in America she's been sleeping in Shawn's room. On my way to say goodnight to her before joining Melanie in the guest house, I'd pause outside the door and listen to her beg God to give Shawn back.

I let myself in and climb in the bed to face her. Her eyes were wet, a deep sadness in them I wish I could wipe away. She was clutching onto Shawn's hoodie, a wet spot visible from where her face had been buried into it while crying. Melanie slips in the bed behind her and she shutters a calming breath. I wipe her eyes and watch as they close with her letting out a sleepy sigh.

I kiss my cousin's forehead and hold hands with her as she falls asleep, like we always do when one of us is hurting. I look behind her at Melanie and could see she felt something for Beth. I don't say anything about it because I'd be a hy