A Special Bond

His face was always smiling, and that smile would emanate a special illuminating light, that I'd notice everytime I saw him. I know he's been struggling for a very long time now, fighting to accept the reality, yes it's true- I am leaving for a long time without a plan of return. The first time he heard it, his silence made me realise how shocked he was. I felt sad. I'll be leaving everything and everyone behind. He made me feel as if he wants me to stay more than anyone else. And he repeated that, sincerely, over and over again. 'Please stay...It will never be the same without you.'
And today he called and said, 'perhaps you don't realise, I love you a lot. You might think it's a joke, but it's true.' I said don't make me cry.
'Is this brother of yours deserving of your time? Can we meet once before you leave? Somewhere...special, where I can cherish and remember our memories until you return?'
Under my breath, I quietly said, 'but I will not return...'