"Don't look so forlorn, Ronnie," my sister said, wrapping her arms around me from behind as I stared out her living room window. "We both knew this day was coming."

"I know," I answered quietly, placing my hands over hers. "I just didn't think it would come so soon."

"None of us did." Maryanne rested her chin on my shoulder and I could feel her breath on my neck. "Mark was as surprised as anyone when he became part of the troop withdrawal."

"Don't get me wrong, Sis," I said, turning to face her. "I'm very happy for you that Mark is coming home," I said, looking her in the...