The next day was filled with tears and hugs and kisses as Mike got ready to go to an Air Force base for basic training.

He said goodbye to his mother first, then Paul. Last was Micky.

Mike held Micky close for a long time and Micky sniffled constantly, trying his best to hold back tears. Mike kissed him all over—his cheeks, forehead, nose, eyes, neck, before finally settling on his lips.

"I love you," Mike whispered as they kissed a final time.

"I don't want you to go," Micky whimpered. Mike's chest tightened and he held Micky tight, knowing that it would be the last time they could hold each other like that for a long time.

He didn't want to go.

But he had to.

He promised his father.

"I love you," Mike said again as they pulled away.

"Pr-Promise?"

Mike smiled, though it was bittersweet.

"I promise."

I grew up on an Air Force base. Wright Patt represent 👌🏻👌🏻