When virtue and modesty enlighten her charms, the lustre of a beautiful woman is brighter than the stars of heaven, and the influence of her power it is in vain to resist.
Author's pov
The flower shop is a quaint, charming little place with colourful blooms displayed in abundance outside. The shop's sign, "Blossoms & Dreams," sways gently in the breeze. Inside, the shop is bustling with activity as customers browse and staff assist with arrangements.
In the parking lot across the street, a sleek black car is parked at an angle, its windows slightly tinted. Inside the car sits Jordan, a man in his late twenties with an intense gaze. He wears a tailored suit and looks out through the windshield with a sense of purpose.
Jordan's eyes are fixed on the flower shop, observing every detail with a scrutinising stare. He takes a deep breath, seemingly calculating his next move. On the passenger seat next to him is a folder, its contents neatly organised and slightly worn. His gaze well on the woman sitting on the counter.
Jordan's fingers drummed lightly on the edge of the folder as he continued to watch the woman behind the counter. She was vibrant, her laughter ringing out occasionally, mingling with the soft, floral scent that drifted through the air. Her name, Eliza, had been scribbled on a note inside the folder.
He shifted in his seat, adjusting his tie as he mulled over the information he had. Adrian's obsession with Eliza was becoming more evident by the day, and Jordan had been assigned to investigate the connection.
Jordan's eyes narrowed as he watched Eliza step out of the flower shop, her demeanour relaxed and cheerful. She was greeted by a little boy, his face brightening up as he ran towards her, his small arms outstretched. Eliza scooped him up effortlessly, her smile widening with genuine warmth.
The woman accompanying them, presumably Eliza's family, had an air of familiarity and comfort about her. They exchanged brief words and laughter before heading towards a nearby cafe. Jordan's gaze lingered on them for a moment, noting the ease with which they interacted.
Jordan's attention shifted to the other woman walking alongside Eliza and the little boy. She was younger, likely close in age to Eliza, with an easygoing demeanour that contrasted with the intensity of the situation Jordan was involved in. Her laughter mingled with the sounds of the street, and she seemed to be engaged in a light-hearted conversation with Eliza, completely at ease.
Jordan adjusted his rear view mirror slightly to keep her in sight as they entered the cafe. The woman's casual, friendly interaction with Eliza suggested that she was more than just an acquaintance—possibly a close friend who might know more about Eliza's personal life and perhaps even her recent interactions with Adrian.
He took note of her appearance and demeanour. He watched as the group settled into a corner booth at the cafe, their interaction lively and genuine. The girl beside Eliza, she seem to catch his attention. The young woman was animatedly discussing something, and Eliza listened intently, her expression one of genuine interest and amusement.
Jordan's gaze settled on Kia, the young woman who had caught his attention. Her outfit was effortlessly stylish—an ensemble of a casual yet chic sundress paired with a denim jacket. The dress's bright colors, reminiscent of the flower shop's blooms, accentuated her lively personality. It was clear from her demeanour and attire that she valued comfort and authenticity, blending perfectly with Eliza's relaxed, cheerful aura.
Kia's choice of accessories was minimal but meaningful. A delicate necklace with a small pendant and a simple bracelet suggested a taste for understated elegance. Her shoes were practical but fashionable—white sneakers that hinted at a blend of practicality and trendiness. Jordan noted these details with the precision of someone who needed to understand every nuance.