Falling for Autumn

When she entered the room, Jack was by himself. Despite feeling nervous, she managed a smile. They havent kept you alone for too long, have they? she asked.

Jack shook his head. No, theyre just getting dessert. They know youre tired and want to get home.

Autumn sat down. Im sorry, but I had a long day.

I understand.

I went on three job interviews today. It was crazy.

Well Im happy to hear you landed one of them.

For the first time this evening, Autumn finally felt the tension begin to leave her shoulders. Perhaps it was the music. Or maybe it was his smile. Charming and genuine. Thank you, she replied. So how long are you staying with Julia?

About a month and then its back to work.

Daisy told me you write.

Yes, I do.

She glanced at his hands. Are you published?

He nodded. Fortunately, most of the books have done quite well.

You dont really believe everything you write, do you?

He raised his eyebrows. I write what my subject tells me to write.

So how do these subjects communicate with you?

Jack grabbed his glass from the table and leaned back. Generally, I go to wherever they reside and stay until theyve finished telling me their stories. After that, we follow up with tapes and e-mails.

Autumn put her hand to her mouth to muffle her laughter. He didnt really expect her to believe that he conversed with spirits, did he? And by e-mail? Please, this was just ridiculous.

You seem amused. Im glad I made you laugh.

I just have a hard time believing in all that stuff. I know Daisy does, but Im skeptical.

Perhaps some of it is outlandish, but sensationalism sells.

Here we go, Daisy said as she entered the room.

Autumn looked up at Daisy who was carrying a large plate of various pastries. Julia was right behind her with the tea tray.

Jack immediately stood and took the tray from Daisy.

Once Daisy and Julia were settled back down in their chairs, Autumn did the honors of pouring the tea. It smelled sweet and reminded her of the incense she had smelled on her way back from the bathroom.

Mom, what was that I smelled in the living room?

Daisy inhaled slowly. Its Frangipani. Isnt it just lovely?

She raised her eyebrows. What is frangy pangy?

Its Fran-juh-pan-ee, Daisy corrected. The scent is burned for calmness.

And seductiveness, Julia added.

Autumn nodded. I see. And why would you be burning something for seductiveness?

Daisy sighed. Please dear, its for the calmness. There hasnt been any seduction in my life in years. I may indulge in sedation now and then, but as for being seduced, its been a while.

Autumn shook her head. Daisy never had a problem speaking her mind no matter her audience. Shed once announced her hemorrhoids were acting up in front of Trevor. When hed asked what hemorrhoids were, she explained in detail. To this day, she believed her son lived in fear of Preparation H commercials.

Julia winked at Daisy. Well, maybe since youre burning it now, it will bring a nice man into your life.

Daisy smiled. One must always be open to the possibilities. She looked at Autumn. Wouldnt you agree, dear?

She didnt reply. Instead, she sipped her tea and avoided looking in Jacks direction.

To Autumns delight, the conversation soon turned to the animal shelter. Daisy and Julia chatted away about the proposed addition and how happy they were that they would be able to house more dogs and cats. She tried to listen with interest, but her thoughts were on Jack. He exuded such confidence, yet didnt appear arrogant. Despite what she thought were embarrassing moments concerning Daisy, he remained patient. Yes, she thought dreamily, Jack was the type of man she would like to get to know better. He was sexy, strong, intelligent, and he seemed to have a good sense of humor. She paused for a moment. Wait, she reminded herself. He also spoke to ghosts.

With that thought stuck in her head, she realized it was time to go home.

Sorry to interrupt, she said, but I really have to get going.

Julia glanced at her watch. Yes, Jack, we should be going as well.

Daisy frowned. Well, I guess it is late, but I hate to see you all leave.

Julia, Jack, it was nice seeing you again, Autumn said as she stood from her chair. Im sure Ill see you again at the shelter.

Jack stood as well. Autumn, hang on a minute and Ill walk you to your car.

Uh, thats not

Why of course you should, Jack, Daisy interjected.

Autumn knew it was pointless to argue. She gave her mother a knowing look, but Daisy continued to smile.

Just give me a minute, Jack said. Ill be right down.

Autumn waited for Jack to leave the room before turning back to Daisy. Let me help you clear the dishes.

Thats not necessary, Daisy replied.

Of course it is, she said giving her mother a look of warning.

Very well.

Autumn grabbed the dessert plates and placed them on one of the trays. She smiled at Julia before hurrying into the kitchen with Daisy trailing behind.

What are you doing? Autumn demanded once they were inside the safety of the kitchen.

I dont know what youre talking about.

Oh, I think you do. Why would you ask him to walk me to my car? Its parked ten feet from the door. I dont need an escort.

Daisy placed her hands on her hips. You need to make friends. You need to get out there and date.

Autumn released a frustrated breath. I think what I need is to get my life together before I date, Mother.

I dont appreciate your tone.

I dont appreciate your meddling or this ambush you planned.

If you would just listen to me and allow yourself to be more open to the universe, you wouldnt be so stressed out.

Autumn leaned against the counter and gently rubbed her temples. As she did, she glanced down at her sneakers. It was then that she realized she hadnt told her mother what she had done earlier that day. She looked up at Daisy and let out a laugh.

Whats so funny?

She lifted her head and smiled. I just remembered I did something today that will not only shock you, but also make you proud.

Daisy moved closer. Oh my, did you finally schedule an aura cleansing?