He hesitated, but then decided his brother would just keep calling if he didn’t

answer. “Yeah, Bobby?” He kept his voice casual, carefree, although he was right

now wound tighter than the nerves of a drill sergeant on ten Red Bulls. “I

heard,” said Robert. “Heard what?” “That you resigned.” “Who did you hear that

from?” “Messenger doesn’t matter. Just got one question for you.” “What’s that?”

“Are you insane?” “Not the last time I checked.” “Resigning? Striking out on

your own. For what?” “For the truth, Bobby. Don’t you think it’s important

enough?” “What I think is important is for you to rescind the letter, get back

on your horse, and start following orders again.” “Not sure I can do that.” “The

Army will forgive and forget, Junior.” “It’s not the Army I’m worried about. And

I can’t forget.” “Well, with this you have to. I know you want to find out what

happened to Mom, but it was thirty years ago. It’s an impossible mission. And

you should just forget about it. Why set yourself up for failure?” “Is that

really your best advice?” “Hey, I get it, you were Mom’s favorite. So you want

to avenge her. But this is not the way to do it.” Puller had stiffened when his

brother said this. His attention became riveted instead of lackluster. “You

really think so?” “I know so. Look, I’ve given you advice in the past that

turned out to be good, right?” “Yes.” “Well, this is good advice too. Take it.

Pull back the reins, take some time to clear your head. Hell, go on a vacation

for a few days, or even a week.” “I’m not sure the Army will let me do that,”

said Puller. Did his brother know he was officially on leave with no end date?

“I think you’ll find they will. So just lose yourself for a while, Junior.

 

Then come back recharged. You’ll see things a lot more clearly.” “Okay, Bobby. I

guess you’re right.” “I know I’m right. Now, don’t make me come back there and