ginnings. Despite the ongoing war, the town held onto hope, finding solace in the changing seasons. F

walking through town, talking about their dreams and fears. David's unwavering support and kindness provided Mar

n when she noticed David approaching the gate. He wore a

y?" Mary Ellen asked, wip

"I have some news, and I'm

rt skipped a bea

es. Many soldiers have been reported missing or wounded. I heard from Mr.

r. "Thank you for telling me, David. I'll g

his grip reassuring. "No matter what

racing with worry and fear. Eloise sat by her side, offerin

A crowd had already gathered, everyone anxious to hear news of their loved

, his voice shaking slightly. "I have the lis

Jenkins began reading the names. She held Elois

Jenkins finally said. "R

s she struggled to process the words. Missing in action. Not dead, but missing

ghtly. "We don't know anything for sure," she whispered.

He quickly made his way to Mary Ellen's side, offering his support. "Mary El

but she found strength in her friends, family, and the community. Harpersville rallied around her, offerin

ous expression. "Mary Ellen, I've been thinking. I know how much you love Don, and I respect that. But I wa

. She reached out and took David's hand, her voice steady. "David, your friendship has

ote letters to Don, even though she didn't know if he would receive them. She

she heard the sound of footsteps approaching. She looked up to see

said, slightly out of breath

mbling hands and quickly opened it. The handwriting wa

Mrs. P

s alive. He was injured during the offensive and is currently in a field hospital. He asked

epest r

me

ter to her chest, tears of relief streaming down her face. She looked up at Mr. Je

Mary Ellen felt a renewed sense of hope and determination. She wrote back to James

of peace and comfort she found in her friendship with David, while remaining steadfast in her love for Don. The war had teste

lding hope that one day, the war would end and their loved ones would come home. And through it all, Mary Elle