I'm glad we could share that moment together...it meant more to me than I can possibly put into words. And now, as much as it pains me to say this...I have to go. Tomorrow morning, I leave for my new posting and who knows where life will take us from there.

"Goodnight, Orchid." I watch her leave with a mixture of emotions. Part of me wants to go after her and hold her close, never wanting this moment to end. But another part knows that it's time for us both to face whatever lies ahead on our own. As the night wears on, I finally manage to compose myself enough to sleep, but not before drifting off with one final thought echoing through my mind.... "I will find a way to make this work."