AUTUMN'S CHILD

By Tom Smith

Slowly CHLOE enters the room. She has changed into a simple dress.

CHLOE

Momma?

MOMMA

Chloe? Good Lord, what are you doing here? I was supposed to pick you up this afternoon! The hospital said—

CHLOE

Don't worry, Momma, I took care of everything. God, I missed you! And Daddy.

MOMMA

Jack? Chloe’s here!

(no reply)

CHLOE

Is he sleeping?

MOMMA

He gets so tired these days. Chloe, you know I wanted to come when…when I heard the news. But Daddy…

CHLOE

I know, Momma.

MOMMA

Are you hungry? I could make you some pancakes?

CHLOE

Maybe just a cup of coffee.

(MOMMA moves toward the kitchen.)

I'll get it, Momma.

MOMMA

Nonsense, you stay off your feet!

CHLOE

I'm ok, Momma. Really.

(CHLOE enters the kitchen.)

MOMMA

They said on the news this morning that we should be getting frost any day now. You can feel it in the air this morning, can't you? The first hint of change. I had to put on a sweater.

CHLOE

(off; laughing)

You're always cold!

MOMMA

You're just like me; don't say you aren't! Honey, do you want a sweater too? It's a still little chilly.

(she enters CHLOE’S room)

CHLOE

(running out of the kitchen)

Momma, stay out of my room!

MOMMA

(re-enters carrying a baby wrapped up in a blanket)

Chloe? Chloe, who is this?

(CHLOE rushes over, takes the baby and re-enters her room)

Answer me, Chloe!

CHLOE

(slowly re-entering)

That’s my baby.