Pieces

All lost

     "I'll be back..." I said with a sigh. It broke my heart watching tears fall down Alyssa's face, knowing full well she didn't know what was happening.
     "You promise?" She said with a sob, her 4 years old eyes searching my face frantically for an answer.
     "No." I whispered, so quiet I almost didn't hear it myself. That answer did reach Alyssa's ears though because she lifted her head to face mine. My face pinched together in pain. Alyssa lifter her tiny hands to cup my cheeks.
     The hand on my shoulder brought me out of my thoughts. I could never get bored of seeing Alyssa's bright green eyes. The eyes I've seen for 4 years, that I would probably never see again.
     I quickly placed a soft and sweet kiss on the top of her head. As I began to stand I felt her hug tightly against my leg.
     "No no no, don't go Mommy!" she choked out.
     "It's ok baby. I love you so much, but I have to go. I love you, ok? You never forget that." I felt those eyes beam into my skin, but I couldn't bring myself to look into her eyes, knowing all I would see is pain and fear.
     I saw my husband pry Alyssa off my leg and hold her tightly as she sobbed. I full well would do anything not to leave this beautiful family I was so fortunate to be a part of, but I had no choice. It was the only way to keep them safe.
     The hand that grabbed my shoulder earlier was now around my forearm and was lightly pulling me away. I looked up and made a painful eye contact with my husband. I mouthed 'I love you' before I turned.
     Their faces will be forever in my mind. The two loves of my life. My other halves. But they wouldn't be safe if I didn't do this. This was my only option. Their heart break breaks me but it would mean a happy life for them and that is all that mattered.
     Anything for them.