Chapter 25: Call of Duty – Six Months in Iraq
The peaceful days with his newborn son and loving wife came to an abrupt halt when Simon received a call from his commanding officer. It was a direct order—one that could not be refused. A critical mission required the world's finest soldier, and there was no one better than Major Simon August Jenner.
As Simon read the deployment details, Gigi watched him with a worried expression. She knew this day might come, but it didn't make it any easier.
"You're leaving again," she said quietly, holding baby Alex in her arms.
Simon nodded, his jaw clenched. "Six months in Iraq. It's a high-stakes mission. If I don't go, the situation could escalate into something worse. I can't ignore this, love."
Gigi walked over to him, placing a hand on his cheek. "I understand. Just promise me you'll come back to us."
Simon held her close, kissing her forehead. "Always. Nothing will keep me from coming back to you and Alex."
Farewell at the Airport
The day Simon left for Iraq, the entire Jenner family came to the airport to see him off. Kris held baby Alex tightly, her face a mixture of pride and worry.
"Stay safe, Simon," she said, her voice breaking slightly. "We'll take care of everything here. Just focus on coming home."
Simon embraced his mother and sisters, giving each of them a reassuring smile. When it was Gigi's turn, she clung to him, tears streaming down her face.
"I'll write to you every chance I get," Simon promised, his own voice heavy with emotion. "Take care of Alex for me."
"I will," Gigi whispered, her hands clutching his dog tags.
As Simon boarded the plane, he turned back one last time, giving them a salute. His family watched as the plane took off, carrying him back to the front lines.
Life in Iraq
The desert heat was relentless, and the tension in the air was palpable. Simon joined his battalion, quickly assuming command of the operation. The mission involved dismantling a dangerous insurgent group threatening to destabilize the region.
Despite the danger, Simon thrived in the chaos. His unparalleled skills, sharp instincts, and unshakable resolve earned him the respect of everyone under his command.
His dual Desert Eagles became legendary among the troops, and his leadership style inspired confidence even in the direst situations. But while Simon was a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield, he never forgot about his family back home.
Letters to Home
Every night, Simon found time to write to Gigi. His letters were filled with love and longing, describing his days while reassuring her that he was safe.
"Dear Gigi,
The nights here are quiet, and that's when I think about you and Alex the most. I can't wait to hold you both again. Tell Alex his dad is doing his best to make the world a safer place for him to grow up in. I miss you, love. Stay strong for me."
Gigi read each letter with tears in her eyes, sharing them with the family. Even Alex, though too young to understand, seemed to recognize his father's words when Gigi read them aloud.
The Final Mission
The last mission of Simon's deployment was the most dangerous yet. His team was tasked with rescuing hostages held deep within enemy territory.
Under the cover of darkness, Simon led his team through treacherous terrain. The operation was intense, with gunfire echoing through the night, but Simon's flawless strategies ensured their success.
As they extracted the hostages and neutralized the insurgents, Simon felt a sense of relief. The mission was a success, and his time in Iraq was finally coming to an end.
Homecoming
Six months later, Simon stepped off the plane, his uniform crisp and his stride confident. The sight of his family waiting for him at the terminal brought a rare smile to his face.
Gigi was the first to run to him, Alex in her arms. Simon scooped them both up, holding them tightly.
"Welcome home, Major," Gigi whispered, her voice trembling with emotion.
Simon kissed her deeply, then looked at Alex, who was now babbling excitedly. "I'm home, buddy. And I'm not going anywhere this time."
Kris and the rest of the family surrounded him, their relief and pride evident.
"Dinner's on us tonight," Kris announced, wiping away tears. "Our hero is finally home."
Simon smiled, his heart full. After months of chaos, he was finally where he belonged—with his family.
To Be Continued...