Flowers & Photos | Ongoing

2. S m i l e

Aden

As I stood before the large mirror, I couldn't help but gaze at my reflection once again. I scrutinized every detail, every aspect of my appearance. And I was pleased to see that everything was perfect. The puffiness around my eyes had vanished, and the dark circles that had once plagued me were now a distant memory.

My white crew-neck sweater, soft and inviting, was slipped effortlessly into my grey trousers, creating a seamless line from top to bottom. The fabric hugged my body in all the right places, accentuating my curves and contours. And holding it all together, a supple leather belt cinched tightly around my hips, adding a touch of sophistication and elegance to my overall look.

I smoothed out any wrinkles on my sweater, making sure every fold and crease was in place. I adjusted my belt, ensuring it was snug against my waist. And then, I took a step back, admiring the finished product. I looked polished, put-together, and confident. I was ready to take on the day.

I got out of the house, closing the door and locking it. Once it was done, I looked at my McLaren, sorry babe, but today I won’t use you. The flower boutique was just a few mansions away. And my mother always said simple guys had a greater charm than anyone could ever have.

As I stepped out of the house, I made sure to close the door behind me and lock it securely. I took a moment to ensure that everything was in order before turning my attention to my sleek McLaren, parked elegantly in the driveway. I gazed at its sleek design and powerful engine, feeling a pang of affection for my beloved vehicle.

"Sorry, babe," I whispered, patting the hood of the car, "but today I won't be taking you out for a spin." I had other plans, and they didn't involve the thrill of speeding down the highway with the wind in my hair.

Instead, I would be taking a leisurely stroll to the flower boutique, which was conveniently located just a few mansions away. The fresh air and gentle exercise would do me good.

As I walked, I couldn't help but think of my mother's words of wisdom. She always said that simple guys had a greater charm than anyone could ever have. I smiled to myself, wondering if she had been right. Maybe today's outing would be a chance to find out, a chance to catch the eye of the beautiful florist.

...

As I stepped into the flower shop, a sense of nervous excitement washed over me, like a gentle wave caressing the shore on a warm summer day. The bell above the door rang out, announcing my arrival, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation building up inside me, like a crescendo of emotions waiting to be unleashed. I had been thinking about this moment since yesterday, when I had first met the lovely Lilith, and the memory of her smile had lingered in my mind like a sweet fragrance that refused to fade away.

Her name was etched in my memory, and I couldn't help but smile as I thought about our initial encounter. She had been kind enough to share her number with me, and I had been looking forward to seeing her again, wondering if the connection I clearly thought we had made would still be there, like a spark waiting to be reignited. The uncertainty was thrilling, like a blank canvas waiting to be filled with vibrant colors, a story waiting to be written.

As I entered the shop, my eyes met hers, and time seemed to stand still, as if the clock had stopped ticking, and the world around us had melted away, leaving only the two of us, suspended in this moment, like two souls floating in a sea of serenity. Her green eyes sparkled like emeralds in the morning light, radiant and captivating, shining with a light that seemed almost otherworldly. And her long hair cascaded down her back like a golden waterfall, shimmering with every movement, like a river of sunset hues.