Nothing works, he said. No TV or radio. No electricity. The gas has been cut off for a month now. Can’t even make a pot of coffee. He spit on the linoleum floor. What I wouldn’t do for a cup of joe. I’d even settle for herbal tea. Although I prefer Earl Grey.  Any kind of hot drink would do. He looked out the kitchen window. Leaves are piling up. Soon, it’ll be nothing but white out there. That’s my guess. Farmer’s Almanac says differently. Says it’s going to be mild. Who knows? Could be a cold, wet winter. I place my bets on nothing. Can’t trust Mother Nature. She’s got a burr up her ass. Always out to prove me wrong. He spit his tobacco on the floor again. Every woman is. He lit a candle. This is supposed to smell like autumn. That’s what it says on the jar. Autumn Spice.

How much did it cost you? She asked.

Don’t worry about it. You know there’s no money anymore. Spent it all at the casino. 

Luck is not on our side. She said. Never has been. Always a struggle.  

I said, don’t worry about it.

You stole it, didn’t you?

I wanted you to have it. Wanted you to have something nice. His face glowed in the dark.

I don’t want it.

You don’t?

Nope.

Well, it’s too late for that. Just hang on a while longer. Our check will be here in a few days.

Right. And then it’s gone. She told him.

Everything always is.