"Don't let go," I whispered slightly.
Moments passed and I feared he hadn't heard me. My mouth opened to make another attempt when his deep, soft voice broke the silence,
"I have to, my bus is here."
His hold around me loosened, causing me to reluctantly drop my arms. Tears stained my red cheeks.
"It's okay, love," he lifted my chin to face my red rimmed eyes with his, "I'll be home before you know it. I love you."
With those words, and a last kiss, he boarded the bus.

I stood alone as his camouflage uniform disappeared down the road in a cloud of exhaust.
"Don't worry," I murmured as I placed my hands gently on my swollen belly, "Daddy will be home soon."