fall. where the leaves turn red, brown, and orange. the air turns crisp. and the seasonal depression kicks in. it was a beautiful season, sure. but to jim it just meant another lonely holiday season.
he drives to work with a blank look in his eyes, only seeming to come to life when he parks in front of the station. he takes a deep breath and blinks a few times, adjusting his hat before he steps out of his car. the burly man shivers at the gust of wind that brings leaves down the street, making his way inside.
he grumbles a morning to their receptionist before walking through the door that brings him to the back – and thus their little kitchen. coffee is the most important part of his day, and it’s where he goes first. he likes it black, like ... well, like the lake at night. with just a spoon full of sugar. when he’s done with that, he grabs a donut from the box on the table and takes a bite out, making way for his office.
he doesn’t quite notice the body in his office when he just waltzes on in, chomping away at his donut. it’s only until he sits down in his chair that he pays enough attention – and it’s like all the air is sucked out of the room.
she does this often, drops by with – food ... ? he sniffs, but makes it look like he’s taking a deep breath. spaghetti, today. he’s not sure why he’s surprised each time. perhaps it’s because sara had her eyes. a dull sort of pain began to well in his chest, so he clears his throat and sits back in his chair, coffee in hand.
“ diane, ” her name comes out a little forced. try harder. “ couldn’t’ve waited till after morning ? ”
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