with light, to cease to speak and be perfectly understood.
― Rebecca Solnit
At a Crossroad
"I would have been happy here," I whispered, as I stared at the modest brick home bordering on footpath.
"This is hard for you, isn't it?" Autumn asked.
I nodded, swallowing so hard I couldn't put into words what I was feeling. I just felt so desolate.
"All those years he knew I was out there...struggling, and didn't lift a hand to help."
“He was fallible and flawed, but he got Breton to look after you when you ended up in juvie," she reminded me, "that was something."
I guess, “but Breton was the only real dad I ever had."
"Family isn't just what you're born into, Jake, it’s also who's beside you, helping you through life."
I leaned back in the seat and closed my eyes, letting her words roll through me—it's who's beside you, helping you through life.
Hmm—that would be Autumn—she's here for me come hell or high water. She'll be my lifelong helpmate.
My breathing slowed. Family is wherever she will be—It will be what we make, not just what we're given.
And Breton will be there too, on the sidelines, coaching me and urging me to be my best.
I do have family.
"Well," I grunted, forcing myself to move, "I think we should get out and see what my father has left me. I can be thankful for that, at least."
Her smile brightened and lit up the gloom inside me.
"I feel like the sun just came out," I smiled.
"He may not have been the best father, Jake, but he had a son he could be proud of. I know I'm proud of you."
I felt my throat tighten and my eyes go moist.
"Don't make me cry again, Love—I know I can count on you."
We held hands and walked up the path to the house.
I paused on the front porch, before inserting the key in the lock.
“You know when I bought my townhouse I told myself I wasn’t buying it just for me, but to share with whomever I met. I thought telling myself that might make it seem less empty—but it didn’t. The only time that house sung was when you came over and we sat by the fire.”
“If we’re truth-telling," she smiled, "then I've got to admit I feel the same way. I hate going back to my condo at nights. I only feel whole when I’m with you.”
“I think I know where this is heading,” I chuckled, “but let’s take a look and see which house wins out.”
She looped her arm through mine and lay her head on my shoulder.
“I don’t care where I live, as long as it’s with you …and forever,” she whispered.
“You’re right,” I grinned, “we’re already a family. We just need a wedding and Breton to make it official.”