Love, Autumn

by Bloom, Nikki

  “I hear she’s nothing but a troublemaker.” Another nurse turned around and joined the conversation. “Rumor has it that she’s been the cause for countless surgeons leaving the hospital.”

  “Mhm,” said the newspaper nurse. “The woman’s a leech. She just wants them for their money.” She clicked her pencil against the counter. “Gives us women a bad name.”

  “Gives us nurses a bad name,” the other nurse chimed in. “I do my best to take care of my patients and all she’s doing is running around trying to score herself a husband.” She paused and shook her head. “I would be careful around her if I were you, Dr. Thompson. I’ve seen the way she looks at you.”

  I shook my head. “So, she has done this before?”

  “Oh, plenty of times,” the older nurse answered. “Plenty of times.”

  “So, why is she still here? Hasn’t the hospital thought of doing something about it?”

  “No one bothers to report her.” The newspaper nurse placed her reading material flat against the desk. “If you ask me, bring her to human resources. She’s gotten away with way too much and she needs a good dose of reality.”

  “Mhm.” The other nodded. “She’s not fit for this line of work. Get someone else in here who can do it better, that’s what I say.”

  “I see. Thanks, girls.” With that, I walked away and found myself a bit of privacy in the breakroom. There, I pulled out my phone and dialed Terry’s number.

  “Hello?” Her voice was slurred, no doubt from her night of drinking.

  “Why aren’t you at work?” I asked, trying to sound as polite as possible.

  “I’m sick,” she answered.

  “From all your drinking last night?”

  “What are you talking about?”

  “Please, don’t play dumb with me, Terry. I saw you at the bar last night. Hell, I was the one who sent you home before you did something to hurt yourself.”

  “I didn’t go to a bar last night,” she insisted.

  “Terry.” My voice shook. “If you lie to me you aren’t going to like the consequences.”

  “I’m not lying.”

  That was the last straw. “I’m sorry, but I can’t justify having you on my team. Your decisions are affecting the quality of life for my patients. Last night, you arrived late to a vital operation and while in the OR you did more talking than anything else. Today you skip work because of a bad drinking habit. Enough is enough. I’m sorry but I’m going to have to report you to human resources.”

  “Human resources?” Before she could say anything else, I hung up the phone. I really did not have time to deal with her little act. My job was to save lives and that was exactly what I planned to do.

  17

  Leo

  A few months later.

  I was running around town when I charged past a brand-new jewelry store. A bright red banner that read ‘Grand Opening Sale’ fluttered in the wind. I stood in front of the window display and surveyed the countless glittering gems. They were stunning. I’m no diamond expert but these looked like they were superbly manufactured.

  “I see we’ve caught your attention.” An older gentleman stood at the door. As he spoke, he twirled the end of his mustache between his fingers. “We have an even bigger selection inside the store. Please, if anything, come inside and have a cup of complimentary coffee. It’ll warm you up on this bitterly cold autumn day.”

  His voice was like some sort of tonic that lulled me into submission. Without being conscious of my movements, I shuffled into the establishment. There, I was met with a dizzying number of necklaces, bracelets, brooches, and of course, rings.

  I gravitated toward the left where they were showcasing the ‘wedding collection.’ The highlight of that collection was a vintage-inspired ring with a pear-shaped accent. The white gold was polished to an impeccable shine and the rose gold accents really made it something to look at it. Not to mention the fact that it was absolutely covered in diamonds.

  “If I had to guess, you’re shopping for Mrs. Right,” the old man said with a wink. “And that you’re a man with some money in his pocket.”

  “Money isn’t an issue,” I answered in agreement. “But I don’t necessarily want to get her the biggest and flashiest ring. I want to get her something that she will absolutely fall in love with – price tag aside.”

  “That is where I come in. Tell me about this girl, her tastes, what kind of clothing she likes to wear, and then I can suggest a few things I think she might like.”

  “That won’t be necessary,” I said as I pointed to the ring I had been looking at. “That’s the one.” I still had Sara’s list of ring qualities committed to memory and this ring fitted it to a T. She might be a little irked that I hadn’t included her in the ring-buying experience but I was sure she would understand.

  “Are you sure you don’t want to browse through your options? You might find something even better if you take the time to look.” Nonetheless, the employee opened up the display case and handed over the ring.

  It felt heavy but not too heavy. After examining it in the light, I slipped it onto my pinky to see how it would look worn. “This is the one,” I repeated.

  “Do you happen to know what her ring size might be? We don’t carry these in stock; we would have to order it for you.”

  “What size is this one?” I asked. It seemed pretty small and Autumn had some pretty slender fingers.

  “Hmm, that one’s a size 6 but I’m afraid it’s not for sale. That’s only a display piece,” he explained as he wrote down the SKU and shuffled over to the computer. “It says here that you could have the ring by next Wednesday or we could have it rush ordered and it’ll arrive by Friday. That option, of course, will cost you extra.”

  “I want to buy this one,” I insisted, already taking out my wallet to pay the man.

  “Sir, I have already explained that this one is not for sale.”

  “I’ll add a thousand dollars to whatever is on the ticket,” I said.

  “Sir, that is ridiculous. Can’t you just wait until the order arrives? It will only be a couple of days. Surely, she won’t change her mind from now until then.”

  “I rather not take my chances,” I said, holding out my credit card between two fingers. “Now, do we have a deal or do I need to offer you two thousand above the list price?”

  He loosened his tie as if I were making him nervous. “I really can’t do what you’re asking me to.”

  “Three thousand. As I said, money is not an issue here.”

  He gulped. “Let me just call the store owner and see what he says.”

  * * *

  About an hour later, I left that store five-thousand dollars poorer but I didn’t give a rat’s ass. I had Autumn’s engagement ring in my pocket, and I had no doubt that she was going to say yes. All I had to do was completely sweep her off her feet and with my level of charm, it was sure to be a cinch.

  Okay, maybe I’m getting a little egotistical, but you have to be when you’re about to ask the most beautiful girl in the world to marry you.

  Fearful of losing the ring on the way, I walked over to the closest tuxedo shop and picked out something to wear. Nothing too extravagant – just a simple black suit with satin lapels. For Autumn I picked up a one-of-a-kind gown that shimmered like the midnight sky. The silk was as soft as feathers and the added sequins really helped bring everything together. “She’s going to look marvelous…” I said to myself as I walked out of the store.

  I was eager to see her at this point, but I managed enough discipline to go home, take a shower, and change. I spent quite a bit of time in front of the mirror making sure I looked okay. After all, no one wants to marry a slob.

  * * *

  When I finally made my way to her house, I had a bouquet of roses and a neatly wrapped box resting on my passenger seat. I kept looking over at them, my nervousness rising. What if she said no? Or what if she needed time to think it over? Or she simply didn’t want to marry
at all? I would look like such a fool.

  I ran my hand along my pocket and felt the bulge of the jewelry box I carried. Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea after all. I wracked my mind trying to remember where I had put the receipt for this expensive cluster of diamonds. Could you even return engagement rings? I guess worst case scenario I could pawn it, but I could only get a fraction of my money back…

  By the time I pulled into her driveway, the back of my neck was covered in beads of sweat. I wiped them away. Everything was going to go according to plan. There was nothing to worry about.

  Tap. Tap.

  I jumped so much that I nearly banged my head against the car’s ceiling. I cursed under my breath as I rolled down the window.

  “What are you doing?” Autumn asked, screwing her eyebrows together. “And why are you dressed in a monkey suit?”

  “A monkey suit?” I repeated. “Does it really look that bad?”

  “Horrendous.” She giggled before leaning forward and planting a kiss on my cheek. “But seriously, what’s with the getup? Are we doing something tonight? Because I was planning on vegging out on the couch. I even bought the popcorn we both like.”

  “Well, about that…” Again, I rubbed the back of my neck and it was even sweatier than it was before. At this rate, I was bound to sweat right through my clothes.

  “What is wrong with you today? You’re acting all strange.” Before I could stop her, she opened up the car door and yanked me to my feet. I nearly lost my footing, but I regained my sense of balance at the last possible moment. “Are you drunk or something?”

  “No. I’m not drunk,” I returned. “I’m just…”

  She waited for my answer but I couldn’t come up with the words. “Cat’s got your tongue today, huh? Oh well.” She shrugged her shoulders and moved toward closing the door but then she noticed the flowers on my passenger seat. “Are these for me?”

  “Yes,” I said and rounded the car before she could grab them. With a flourish of my hand, I presented them to her. “The roses might get a little jealous of your beauty but they’ll just have to deal with it.”

  Immediately, her cheeks turned a bright shade of red. Sometimes, it was impossible to fathom how one woman could be so damn cute.

  “And that?” She pointed to the box. “Is that going to be jealous of me too?”

  I laughed. “No, I don’t think so but when you put it on all the world is going to stop and stare.”

  “I have to admit that you have me intrigued.”

  “Well, then go on, open it.” I tugged on the bow to encourage her.

  “Do I really have to open it in the driveway, or can we go inside?”

  “Inside is fine? Is Sara home?” I asked as I followed her through the front door.

  “No. She’s gone for the weekend. She decided to spend some time with her grandparents up north. Apparently, she plans on going skiing. I’m a little worried that she’ll end up hurting herself, but when she gets an idea in her head, there’s no stopping her,” Autumn explained as she sat down on the edge of the couch and started to tear away the paper.

  “Jeez, someone’s excited,” I teased while leaning into her so I could nibble on the side of her neck.

  She shivered and arched her back in response. For a moment, I considered having my way with her, but I wanted to save the best for last.

  “If you keep doing that then I’m never going to open this box,” she protested, shoving me away with her elbow.

  I backed off just a bit, finally allowing her to rip open the cardboard flaps. With a gasp, she pulled out the custom-made gown.

  “Do you like it?” I asked.

  “Like it…?” She shook her head. “Are you kidding me? This thing is gorgeous. It must have cost you a fortune.”

  “It did but it was worth every penny of it.” I smiled, kissing her neck once more.

  “You really don’t have to spoil me like this.” She blushed. “I’m not really one for fancy dresses. I mean, it’s lovely, don’t get me wrong, but…when am I supposed to wear this?”

  “Tonight,” I said. “I made reservations.”

  “Reservations where?”

  “A place.”

  “What kind of place?”

  “A place.” I grinned.

  “So now you’re playing Mr. Mysterious huh?” She leaned forward and rubbed her nose against mine.

  “I have to keep you engaged somehow.” Just the sound of that word was enough to send jitters through my spine. “Anyway, let’s get you into that dress.”

  “Oh no, you aren’t going anywhere.” She pushed me onto the couch, straddled me, and surprised me with one hell of a kiss. Her lips were hungry and demanding – almost as hungry and demanding as the hips that grinded into my crotch.

  “What has gotten into you?” I mumbled into her lips.

  “Oh, nothing.” Again, our lips crashed together and this time, her tongue invaded my mouth, swirling all around.

  It was becoming hard to breathe but I didn’t care about that. This girl was tempting me, and I was this close to taking the bait.

  Suddenly, she pulled away and started for the stairs, hips swaying from side to side in a blatant attempt to tease me. “Oh, you’re evil. I’ll have to punish you for this later, missy!”

  “I can’t wait.” She looked over her shoulder and threw me a wink. “In fact, I look forward to it.” And with that, she disappeared while I was left to deal with the growing boner inside my pants.

  * * *

  I was starting to doze off by the time she returned. It took me a second to realize that I was staring at my girlfriend and not some angel sent down from heaven. It sounds cheesy I know, but you should have seen her. She had just the right amount of makeup on – enough to accentuate her beauty and nothing more. The dress itself heightened her lean, curvy figure.

  “You look absolutely wonderful,” I said as I took her by the hips. “Every guy in a five-mile radius is going to be looking at you tonight.” I nibbled on her earlobe. “I’ll have to keep my guard up or risk losing you to someone else.”

  She rolled her eyes. “I’m sorry to tell you this but you’re stuck with me.”

  “I wouldn’t have it any other way.” Her words eased any doubt I had brewing inside of me. So, with newfound confidence, I led her out to my car.

  There, I opened up the door and buckled her seat belt for her.

  “You’re really going above and beyond tonight. What’s the occasion?” she asked.

  “No occasion. I just wanted to treat you to a nice night on the town. Is that so wrong of me?” I returned innocently.

  “Alright, if you say so,” she said, seemingly unconvinced.

  With a chuckle, I got behind the wheel. Soon, we were on the highway, cruising toward the coast. I couldn’t help myself as I ran my hand underneath her dress. Her thighs were silky smooth and I could tell she had shaved them – probably while I was dozing off on her couch.

  Addicted to the feeling, my fingers explored higher and higher terrain until they brushed against the lace of her underwear. “Now, what’s this?” I asked, my voice low and husky. “Hmm?”

  “I don’t know,” she answered but there was a sly grin on her face as she leaned back and spread her legs, granting me better access. That was one thing I really loved about Autumn – she was such a naughty girl when she wanted to be.

  “Maybe I should find out,” I said as I pulled her panties aside, exposing her already wet lips. Ever so slowly, I ran my fingertip up and down her slit, watching how she shivered. It was hard to concentrate on the road when she kept mewling in pleasure. “Seems like someone’s enjoying herself.” I removed my finger and opted instead to rub the inside of her thigh.

  “Leo…” she groaned, shooting me a nasty glare. “You can’t do this to me.”

  “Oh, can’t I?” I challenged. It was my hope to drive her absolutely insane by the end of the night. I wanted her to crave me so badly that she’d be on the brink of begging f
or it and maybe if I was lucky, she really would beg for it.

  I paused a moment before taking the waistband of her panties against my thumb. I hooked that thumb and pulled ever so slightly. At first, she didn’t react that much but as I continued to apply pressure, she lifted her hips into the air in a circular motion, begging for more.

  The car vibrated as I accidentally drifted into the breakdown lane.

  “Ooh!” she moaned.

  I took the chance to push one of my fingers into her eager entrance. She was so wet that I slipped right in. Slowly, I moved it around, trying to find the coveted g-spot. Once I found it, I attacked it with my finger, pumping against it over and over again until she howled my name. I built up the momentum until her legs started to shake and just as fast, I took it all away.

  I grinned an evil grin as I drove with both hands on the wheel.

  “Oh, you’re going to pay for that,” she panted as she tried to regain her composure.

  “Am I?” I opened her window for her and she gratefully brought her head closer to the gust of fresh air. “I think I might even look forward to that.”

  “You’re the worst,” she growled. “I was so close too.”

  “That’s the point. Did you really think I was going to let you cum that easily? Oh no, I’m going to make you work for it.” As we eased into a red light, I leaned over and kissed her cheek. “I thought you had learned that by now.”

  She pushed me away, but I responded by biting her bottom lip. She moaned, back arching.

  Honk! I pressed on the gas before pulling away.

  “This is going to be one hell of a night, isn’t it?” She sighed and leaned her head back, gazing out of the sunroof.

  “You don’t even know the half of it.”

  * * *

  The restaurant was nice and quiet when we got there. The waiters all wore white gloves and stood with perfect posture. This was definitely a place for high-standing citizens. Only the best of the best could afford to eat here.