Double Threats Forever by Julie Prestsater Read Free Book Online Page B

with his version of truths about all your parties and what-not. You didn’t really kiss Keesha, did you? Because if you did, and I didn’t get to see it, I’m gonna be pissed. Take a picture for a Marine next time, would ya?
    I’m sorry it’s taken me so long to write. It’s just that every time I’d start a letter, I’d get all sappy and girly like a homesick little kid. And I didn’t want you to have to read that. So I didn’t send them. I have a bunch of them. Maybe when I’m out of basic training, I’ll let you read them so you can laugh at me.
    I’m good now. I’ve settled in and things are finally becoming habit … a routine so it’s starting to feel normal. Your last letter helped. It means a lot to me that you get it and support what I’m doing. I know it was hard at first, but hopefully it’s getting easier for you like it’s gotten easier for me.
    College deadlines are coming up. Next time you write, I want to know where you’re applying. Remember, make the best decision for you. Not other people. And you can tell my bro I said that too. I know he wants what’s best for you too, but don’t let him sway you. So where’s it gonna be? I can’t wait to found out.
    Hey, do me a favor and pass these messages along. It’s easier than sending a bunch of individual letters when I don’t have much time.
     
    Keesha: Take a picture next time!
    Steph: I can’t wait for your cookies either. Thanks for the photos. I look at them every night.
    Travis: Go to college first!!!! We’ll talk more when I’m done with basic and have access to the internet.
    Andi: Dude, thank you for all the sketches. I look hot in pencil, oils, and watercolor. You have some serious talent. Keep drawing, girl.
    Josh: Seriously! Take a picture. Have your camera ready!
    Dom: Gotta follow your heart. We’ll talk soon.
    Jon: Now I know how it feels to be away.
    Alex: You get your own letter. But later. Meg’s more important. Haha.
     
    Okay, little one, I gotta go.
    Have a Slurpee for me. And some Aftershock!
    Miss you.
    Be good.
    Love ya too,
    Ben
     
    I read the letter over and over again before I text everyone to let them know Ben sent us proof of life. Then, one by one, I call them to relay his personal message. Keesh and Josh laugh at his reference to our girl-on-girl action. Steph is ready to start baking for him. Both Travis and Dom don’t want to talk about the meaning behind Ben’s words and that’s fine with me. As long as they get it, that’s all that matters. Andi is psyched that he loved her artwork.
    Jon says being away is probably worse for Ben since he’s been completely cut off for so long.
    “So when are we going to see you again?” I ask him. “I bet my parents would be cool if you stayed with us during one of the breaks.”
    “Dang, Meg. That would be cool. But you don’t need to do that. I could always stay with Josh if I could get there.”
    “Ah. Damn transportation. Be on the lookout for any relatives traveling this way. I miss your face.”
    “Skype me then.”
    “That’s not good enough. I wanna see it right in front of me.”
    “Hold up the phone closer then.”
    “I wanna hug you. And I want my friend to be able to hug you too.”
    “Shit, don’t go there. I’d be there in a heartbeat if I could. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve thought about running away and moving back on my own.”
    “I’m sorry, Jon Jon. I don’t mean to make you feel bad. I’m sure things are great over there until one of us calls you and talks a bunch of shit.”
    He laughs. “Nah, don’t worry about it. I have friends here. I go out and all. But it’s not the same as you guys. I’m glad you all still think about me. I’ll be home soon. After graduation, I’m moving back somehow. I have to.”
    “I’m sure Keesh knows this?”
    “Yeah. We’ve talked about it so much it feels like we’re just counting down the days.”
    “I’m happy for you guys.”
    “Be happy when I get back. Until