Between a cloud of smoke, cool mint hits my lungs.

I'm on the passenger's seat holding your hand too tight, please don't leave.

The houses, the streets, the people decrease in size behind us.

Just like the time will pass, will turn into years perhaps.

You ran a red light as we traveled through galaxies in one conversation.

We made steamy love on the back of your car, cloudy windows and sweaty palms, after that party on your first Friday night back.

Your body scent is a mixture of clean linen and baby powder, your hair smells like coconut.

Your soldier hands are rough with scars, your eyesight appears tired, but eyes still flutter like night sky stars/

You are my very first gentleman who opens my doors every time, blessed with an old soul, and likes my handwritten letters.

I am too comfortable to even wear any makeup, you feel like home at times.

From Guam, Alaska, then Iraq; ocean, views, even time, you'll see the sunset I'll be seeing night.

Seven to eight thousand miles apart, I'll be sitting at a college desk you'll be training to fight wars.

Different bottle, same intoxicant. College parties, Army revelry.

Camouflage and combat boots, oversized T-shirts and yoga pants.

Romantic melodies play in your car, as you stare at me deeply the next Friday night.

And I truly hope and promise this won't be my goodbye.

I just cannot pause my life, destiny and my future should decide.

Although December and 2021 is a long time from now, just know his name holds a place in my heart.