Summer Nights

45: 'The adventures of babysitting...'

I grin brightly as I step into the Spring/Martin household, in my hands I had various barbie dolls that I've had since childhood. Olivia and her husband Archer were going out for the day but Autumn and Luke had some fancy night away planned to celebrate their three month anniversary. So I decided I'd step up and offer to babysit Winter, I figured that I could use the extra practice.

'Scar!' The tiny blonde squeals as she races towards her, hugging my legs tightly.

I stroke her hair, 'Hey angel, how are you?'

'I'm excited for today!'

'Me too, I actually have something fun planned we're going to park to meet my boyfriend and his little brother, how does that sound?'

Her big green eyes sparkle, 'Does this mean that I might have two new friends by the end of the day?'

'I know you will have two new friends.' I say softly.

'And when you have your baby they're going to be my friend too, right?'

'Of course, when your older you can be our chief babysitter.'

She giggles loudly, 'I can't wait!'

Olivia walks into the hallway with a soft smile gracing her lips, 'Hey sweetheart, how are you feeling?'

I shrug, 'Pregnant.'

'Well I must say you are absolutely glowing, what are your plans for today?'

'I was actually wondering if I could take Winter to the park, my boyfriend Rocky and is little brother Harry is going to be there, I thought it would be nice for her to play with someone her age. Plus, we could both do with the practice!'

Her smile widens, 'Ah, that sounds perfect! Winter's actually having a little trouble making new friends at her new school, so this could be good for her.'

My heart sinks at the thought of this wonderful little girl feeling lonely, 'Harry is a good kid.'

'I've actually got something for you!' Olivia chirps, 'Give me one moment!'

I wait at the bottom of the stairs patiently as she rushes up them, my eyebrows furrow together when she returns holding a pastel blue giftbag. 

'W-What's this?'

'This is a little gift for baby boy, I was meant to give you it weeks ago but it slipped my mind.'

Hot tears burn my eyes as I gingerly take the bag off her, 'Y-You didn't have to do this.'

'I wanted to honey, you're an extended part of this family now. You are Autumn's best friend.'

A small whimper escapes from my lips as my heart squeezes tightly, 'Thank you so much, it's truly an honour to know you all.'

I peak into the bag and see a tiny baby grow with little elephants on, my entire body melts entirely.

'It's beautiful! Thank you so much!'

'I'm glad you like it.' She says softly, 'Don't worry, I promise this isn't your main gift! My college roommate Elise she's an artist, so I've put a special request in for you.'

I reach forward and wrap my arms around her tightly as free tears fall down my cheeks, 'Autie is really lucky to have you as an aunt.'

She shakes her head, 'No, I'm the lucky one.'

Olivia's husband Archer walks down the stairs with a small smirk on his face, 'Aw blondie, are you telling people how lucky you are to have me?'

She rolls her eyes, 'Nope, marrying you was perhaps the unluckiest thing I could have ever done.'