When Snow Falls | Tanjiro x Kanao | {Completed}

Chapter 10 - Flowers?

Tanjiro was chewing the inside of his cheek aggressively. The nervous tension in his shoulders would not go away, and he was drowning in self doubt.

All these flowers. Which to choose?

"Sir," the florist said, inclining his head kindly. "What exactly do you need these flowers for? I may be of some assistance in picking some out for you."

Face reddening at the question, Tanjiro coughed in embarrassment. A date. That's what he needed these for. But would this florist laugh at him, a scarred and calloused veteran, and the idea of his going on a date? Surely not. Surely he was used to the sort of thing.

"A...A date," Tanjiro said, a little hesitantly.

The florist's face cracked into a smile. He scratched his head and laughed.

"Of course. I should have seen it before. A strapping young man like yourself is bound to be out on some date or another," the florist said.

"Oh, well, I-" Tanjiro didn't get a word in edgewise before the older man was bustling away toward an array of flowers. Turning, he gestured Tanjiro over to him. Slowly, Tanjiro made his way over to the enthusiastic man.

"It depends on what kind of mood you wish to convey," said the florist. He picked up some lilies and brandished them like a sword. Tanjiro got a faceful of flowers and a strong floral scent. "For example. Want to make it soft and friendly? What about some lilies? Want to subtly woe her with your charm? I recommend these pink wildflowers. Want to keep it classy? What about these red roses?"

The roses now shoved in Tanjiro's face were a deep red. Red like...

Blood.

Clawing, one-handed, through the undergrowth. Aware of the intense pain.

Adrenaline kept him going. He had to get out. He wasn't going to die in this forsaken place. Blood poured out of his wounds, leaving a drag trail behind him as he fought his way toward safety. Miles away. He'd never make it. Everything hurt.

Tanjiro gently pushed the roses away, trying to calm his beating heart. This was ridiculous. He even saw the war in flowers. Flowers!

His composure was leaving him, but he breathed in softly and smiled at the florist.

"None of these feel exactly right," Tanjiro said, "she's...very special to me. I want something special to give to her."

The florist put his hand to his heart. Seeming a little teary, Tanjiro wondered what under the canopy he'd done.

"What a lovely sentiment," the man said, "in that case, pick something that feels right."

Tanjiro looked around. So many flowers, all spewing out at him. It was truly amazing. Reds, oranges, blues, yellows. Even greens were noticeable among the throng.

But something caught Tanjiro's eye. Walking over, he leaned down and gently cupped the beautiful flowers in his hand.

Wisteria.

He'd given wisteria to Kanao years ago while they were taking a walk up in the mountains. After getting lost, they'd found a trove of wisteria trees, all purple and pink in the spring sun filtering through the trees.

Tanjiro loved wisteria. The flower was so sentimental and sweet. Kanao loved wisteria as well. She said they reminded her of him.

Smiling to himself, Tanjiro stood up, glanced at the florist and said,

"Could I get a bouquet of these, please?"

****

Kanao sat nervously in front of her mirror. Everything in her was jumble of excited nerves, wondering what this day would hold. She'd been so happy when Tanjiro had called her and asked if she wanted to go out.