Page 17 of Falling for Autumn
“She died in a boating accident when I was two.”
Autumn stopped the stroller for a moment and looked up at me. “I’m so sorry, October. That had to be hard on all of you growing up, and I cannot imagine how difficult that was for your sister. I’m so grateful that my mom is here to give me guidance, encouragement, and support with Auburn. I couldn’t do it without the people around me.”
“Yes, you could. You’re strong.”
She smiled, but it didn’t reach her eyes. I wondered what she was going through when she was alone.
“So, that’s why you’re here for me the way that you are?”
“Yeah. But over the last two years, a brother got a heart, Autumn. Naturally, I would start caring, and you two make it easy, big baby. Besides, I don’t think that any woman should go through that alone. I think every woman needs a good support system, no matter whether the father is there or not.”
“Yeah, I agree,” she replied softly. “You do realize that I have a support system though?”
“I do.”
“Then why do you still feel the need to come through?”
I eyed her up and down slowly and smiled. If li’l mama hadn’t figured out that a nigga was feeling her, then I guess I’d have to come straight out and say it.
“I like you, Autumn. Told ya ass that two years ago, but you put a nigga on ice. You’re chill as hell, funny, and kind. Then you’ve got the little princess. Who can stay away from her?”
She laughed before she turned her face up to the sun and smiled.
“What’re you thinking about?” I asked as we turned right down another street.
“The changing of the leaves, the cooler temps, boots and sweater weather, hot chocolate, and coziness.”
“So, it’s your favorite season, too, or you stole that idea from me?” I teased.
“Not even, sir. It just seems like the world slows down. During winter, the world comes to a standstill. In the spring, everything comes alive again with hope and anticipation of what’s coming next. During the summer, it’s hot, crazy, and wild, and you never know what you’re going to get. People are constantly on the go, living their best lives and staying in the streets. But fall, . . . it’s majestical, calm, relaxing, and peaceful. It’s the most beautiful season, along with spring.”
“Nah, I get it. I totally agree. I love it for all the same reasons, but football is the main reason.”
“You’re a fan?”
“Damn straight. You’re not?”
She turned her lips down and replied, “I’ve watched it on TV from time to time with my dad, but I’ve never been to a game.”
“It’s a different experience in person than on TV. Much more entertaining and engaging, especially the atmosphere. How have you not been to a game when CSU has the greatest college team in the nation?”
Cherokee Springs was a large city known as the black mecca of the south, but with college town vibes mixed in because of Cherokee Springs University.
“Never had the chance. My life just went in a different direction, is all,” she replied and slowed up as we approached the steps to the library. She immediately tilted the handle of the stroller back toward her.
“Hey, let me grab that.” I moved her out of the way, grabbed the stroller, and carried it up the steps of the library.
“Thank you.”
I pulled the door open, and we headed inside the library’s cool interior. Although it was early September, most buildings still had their air on because of the fluctuating temperatures outside. One minute it would be hotter than hell, and the next minute a nice, crisp, cool breeze would blow through.
I followed Autumn to the children’s section of the library, where she parked the stroller. The minute the stroller stopped, Auburn’s eyes popped open, and she looked around.
I stroked Autumn’s finger, and she jumped with her eyes widened.
“No need to be startled, big baby. Get used to my touch.” When she blushed and didn’t say anything else, I asked, “Did you always read to her when she was in the womb?”
“I didn’t miss a single day. I sang to her too.”
