Page 113 of Fall I Want
Autumn glances at it.
“She wanted me to quit caffeine because it was the only thing I looked forward to each morning. Every cup became an act of rebellion.”
“You’re kidding.” Autumn sets the cup on the counter. “I can’t imagine having to fight for coffee.”
I shoot her a look.
“Are there any redeeming qualities about her?” she asks.
I think about the question for a minute. “Actually, no.”
“At all?” Autumn deadpans.
“She was one step away from shitting on my pillow and blaming it on her dogs,” I explain.
“Wow. I’m really sorry,” Autumn says.
“I spoiled the mood, didn’t I?” I ask, shooting back my espresso. “It’s this place. Too many of the wrong memories were made here.”
“So sell it.” Autumn drinks hers down, too.
“Sell it,” I repeat.
“Is it sentimental?”
I know she’s asking because Hollow Manor is.
“No. Just a few embellishments that will be removed if I leave. I don’t have any personal ties. I just enjoy the view.”
“There are other penthouses, some with even better views,” she says.
My face cracks into a smile. “You’re right. And since it was your idea, I’d like you to help me find a new place. Something you’d like.”
“Was this her space?” she asks, glancing around.
I chuckle. “Hell no. I’ve had this penthouse for over a decade, and purchased it because I need to see grass and trees. Also, I have friends who live in the building. Lately, I haven’t felt like I’m meant to live in New York,” I admit, something I’ve never shared with anyone. Not even my sister.
She reaches forward, grabbing my hand. “Then where will home be?”
“Wherever you are.” It falls out like a confession. “You ease my mind.”
“You’d move to Cozy Hollow permanently?”
“Yes,” I say. “No fucking barriers, Pumpkin. Not when it comes to us.”
Autumn’s expression softens as she glances away, smiling. “We can always make new memories here, too,” she suggests.
“Okay, I fucking love the sound of that.”
Before I can say anything else, my phone vibrates and I unlock it. I read the email notification containing an itinerary for the day I planned for Autumn. I quickly check the time. “I thought we had a few hours together this morning.”
“Huh?” she asks, standing to rinse our cups, then drying her hands. It’s almost like she’s meant to be here.
“Oh, right. You mentioned needing a wardrobe, so I called my sister and asked for a favor on her day off. She agreed to be your personal stylist if I booked the both of you for mimosas and massages.”
“No way.” Autumn moves forward, wrapping her arms around me. “You’re too good to me.”
“No. You’ve just never been treated the way you deserve. This is the bare minimum, Pumpkin.”
