Autumn Leaves

*Ana*

“The season has changed quite nicely, don’t you think, Naska?” I look at the roses.

“I guess.” Naska glances over with little interest. Most are dead save the last few blooms. I wanted to savor them as it would be the last time I would see them until the following spring.

“Just means it's going to get cold soon.” Naska goes. Again, she pulls the shawl around as if she is about to shiver. But she’s the only one. Bruno seems comfortable as he plays with a stick by me.

“It will be winter soon.” Bruno goes, and I have to smile.

“Yes, and it will be Nicoli’s birthday.”

“Who?” Bruno snaps the stick and stares at me before it dawns on him. “Oh! The Prince. Yeah.”

“Perfect, Bruno.” I pat his head. “You remembered well.”

“I’m good at memorizing stuff.” Bruno declares as he moves to pick up a stone. He looks over it before putting it in his pocket. I guess it must be a good one.

“You are, indeed.” I smile before something else dawns on me. “He will be nine this winter.”

“Nine!” Bru