Page 71 of Falling for Autumn
“Now hand it to me,” I instructed as she stopped feeling around.
She pulled her hand from underneath the pillow and held the box out to me. I took it and slowly opened it as she covered her mouth, and her eyes widened. I kneeled in front of her, careful not to block the camera.
“Autumn Meshaun Woods, you have taught me what healing and forgiveness mean. You have shown me true love and accepted my love in return. You welcomed me into your family of two and embraced the idea of a family of four. You didn’t look at me the way that the world did, but you opened your heart and took a risk on me, even at the detriment of your own heart. I am so grateful for your love. I have spent the last two years falling in love with you repeatedly. Would you do me the honor of claiming the title of Mrs. October Rasaun Patterson?”
Tears fell from her eyes as she nodded quickly and then swiped at them. I pulled her hand from her face as she declared, “Yes, October. Yes, I’ll be your wife.”
I slid the ring onto her finger and pulled her closer for a kiss. She whimpered against my lips, and I stood up and sat back on the bench seat. I lifted Autumn onto my lap and kissed her neck.
“Y’all, this is what you get when you make her heart a priority. You have a beautiful person who loves you unconditionally. Good night, y’all.”
I clicked the camera off.
“Baby, you didn’t respond to any comments.”
“We have all day tomorrow to respond to their comments. Tonight, I’m about to celebrate with my big baby. I’ve spent the last few years building your heart back up after having it broken. Everything else in the world can wait.”
“I love you so much, October.”
“I know you do, girl. I love you even more, Autumn.”
And I did. She was the definition and the picture of perfect beauty and love for me.
THE END
