Grace
From: Damon Knight
To: Graciela Rivera
Date: October 15
Subject: Re: Loving Fall
Dear Grace,
That sounds like Aunt Faith alright. She's a force to be reckoned with when she sets her mind to something. I'm sure it's good for your mom to have someone to talk to besides you, Paige and Gabe. I'm sorry she's not doing well.
That's awesome that you are riding. I can't wait to ride with you again when I come home. You should buy yourself some cowboy boots and a hat and be a cowgirl for Halloween. Be sure to send me pics.
I wish it was quiet here. Besides the constant hum of the AC and generators, we have aircraft flying over at all hours of the day and night and convoys moving in and out. Even though the shooting range is on the other side of the compound, the siren for various drills goes off every other day, I swear. Then there’s King’s snoring. It’s worse than a tank.
And it's still hot. Dry and hot.
No trees with pretty fall leaves. Only sand, sagebrush and more sand.
Our routine has become monotonous. Not much happening right now, thank goodness. Some days I wonder why we're even here. But I will be going out on special assignment next week. It should only be for a few days. I probably won't be able to call or text during that time. Don't worry. It's nothing too dangerous.
New bucket list item:Finish my tour without killing Howie.
He got a hold of my phone while I showered on Sunday and scheduled a mammogram in my calendar every Thursday for the rest of the year. And last week, he short-sheeted everyone's beds.
Can't stop thinking about you. I miss you so much.
Love,
Damon
From: Damon Knight
To: Marisol Rivera
Date: October 15
Subject: I miss our talks.
Dear Marisol,
I know it might be a while before you get around to reading this since it sounds like you still don't have much energy. I just wanted to tell you how glad I am that I got to know you and your family. You are a wonderful mother, who raised two amazing kids.
I see so much of you in Grace. Besides being a raving beauty like you, she is compassionate and driven. I love that she's courageous, outspoken and isn't afraid to tackle hard things. I find her stubbornness kind of cute.
Has she told you that she's thinking about becoming a Doctor of Radiology? I know she has reservations (who wouldn't), but I'm trying to encourage her to follow her dreams. She's so inspiring to me.
You are too. Your faith in God and the grace that you exhibit as you face your challenges is truly amazing.
I wish I could have spent more time with you and Grace. You are both in my thoughts and prayers each day.
With love and respect,
Damon (your future son-in-law)
Grace watchedas her mom made her way from the bathroom back to the living room. She was ready to spring off the couch the moment it looked like her mom needed help. She tried to let her be as independent as possible, but her mom's health was failing fast, and she needed help more often lately.
