Eddie’s September Score

Morning shadows lingered a little longer than the month before, casting a cool, comforting shade over the world. When Eddie was out and about, crisp gold and brown leaves crunched under his feet, releasing a rich, earthy scent that signaled autumn. The temperature dipped, ushering summer weather out the door, and a warm hazelnut coffee, with its inviting aroma, accompanied a slice of fresh banana bread. The clock on the wall ticked a minute past seven. Ohio State University played the Crimson Tigers at ten. Eddie plopped onto a maroon couch, set his mug on the glass coffee table, and sat in silence, the only sound the gentle ticking of the clock.

The TV was on, but the sound was off, creating an eerie silence that contrasted with Eddie’s turbulent thoughts. It would happen in September, if it happened at all. Steven’s Jewelers had collected Eddie’s cash when he bought an engagement ring. Eddie set up a secret bank account so Alice would be none the wiser.

The evenly framed artwork on the teal walls with dark trim had him envisioning a framed picture of Alice and him on their wedding day. A smile danced in his eyes, and a tear reached his lips. Negative self-talk played favorites with his self-esteem and his belief—believe — that he was good enough. The world Eddie grew up in didn’t include a sober father, but Alice, with her unwavering love and support, has been a beacon of hope in his life. Alcohol and addiction departed from his father when he was ten, but the scars of his past still linger in Eddie’s present, shaping his thoughts and actions.

Eddie finished his coffee and watched neighborhood children being forced outside to rake leaves. That was him at their age. The clock indicated she should be home any minute. The Crimson Tigers had her fingers crossed. Eddie usually had nothing to worry about; Ohio State University never lost a game. Eddie’s notification played “Coming Home” by New Found Glory. After three years, she still texted him to let her in. Eddie pushed his feet into slippers and made his way down the hallway to the front door.

Alice was shivering in her vintage Crimson T-shirt.

Eddie rested his hands on his hips.

“You going to let me in?” Alice said, goosebumps poked through her skin. “It depends,” Eddie said.

“On…?” Alice brushed her fingers through her hair.

“I have a ring,” Eddie said.

“And?” she said.

“I need you to—”

“Yes!” Alice said. “I’ll marry you, but if you don’t let me in, I’ll burn your house down.”

Eddie opened the door because he knew she’d marry him, and he knew she’d burn his house down, too.

“If you didn’t ask me in a month, I was going to move on.” Alice winked.

“Whatever.” Eddie nudged her. “Ohio State is going to win.”

“How much you wanna bet, buddy?”

“Oh, please,” Eddie said. “You don’t want to bet again, do you?” Alice gave me the once-over and bit her bottom lip. “No, I don’t need to bet. I’ve already won.”

Eddie moved closer to Alice.

She threw her arms around his neck and kissed him as if no one was watching, because everyone had an opinion.

Ohio State won, and so did Eddie and Alice.

By Andy Cooper

From: United States

X: AC0040