Page 128 of Forget-Me-Nots and Apricots

Theo adjusted his glasses, his lips curving into that subtle smile I'd come to recognize as genuine pleasure. "I calculated that arriving sixty-three minutes early would allow me to observe your work process and provide assistance with closing procedures," he explained, his analytical tone softened by the warmth in his eyes. "Also, Lucas insisted I deliver this."

He produced a small paper bag from his messenger satchel, the familiar logo of my favorite bakery printed on the side. "He claims these pastries are essential to your creative process."

I laughed, accepting the bag with a grateful smile. "He's not wrong. Thank you." The thoughtful gesture was so typical of Lucas—always finding small ways to brighten my day even when his schedule kept him busy elsewhere.

"The shop appears to be operating at optimal efficiency," Theo observed, glancing around with approval. "Your new employees have integrated well into the existing business structure." I nodded, pride welling up as I watched Mia expertly advise a customer on flower longevity. "They're wonderful. Having the extra help has made everything more manageable."

"Your business has expanded by approximately thirty-seven percent since implementing the new marketing strategy," Theo noted, his analytical mind never missing a detail. "The website Gabriel's team designed has increased online orders by sixty-two percent."

I smiled, remembering Gabriel's insistence on upgrading my digital presence. "He was right about the online potential. Though I still prefer working with customers face-to-face."

"Different modalities serve different purposes," Theo agreed, his hand brushing mine briefly as he reached to straighten a vase that was a millimeter out of alignment. The casual touch sent warmth through me—Theo had become more comfortable with physical affection over these past months, each small gesture a victory of connection over the analytical distance he'd maintained when we first met.

"Is Dakota still coming by after work?" I asked, setting the pastry bag on the counter for later.

"Affirmative. He was completing some paperwork. Estimated arrival in forty-two minutes, barring unusual traffic patterns." Theo's precise answers had become endearing to me, his need for accuracy a comfort rather than an oddity.

I nodded, returning my attention to the arrangement I'd been working on—a special order for an upcoming gallery opening. As I adjusted a spray of delphinium, Theo moved beside me, his analytical gaze assessing the composition.

"The color distribution creates a pleasing visual harmony," he observed. "Though the structural balance would be enhanced by additional height on the left quadrant."

I smiled, reaching for a slender branch of curly willow. "Like this?"

Theo nodded, his eyes tracking the graceful arc of the branch as I positioned it. "Precisely. The vertical element creates visual flow while maintaining the established color palette."

I worked silently for a few moments, aware of Theo's presence beside me—observant but not intrusive. That was one of the things I'd come to appreciate most about him. He could share space without demanding attention, content to observe and analyze without disrupting my creative process.

"There," I said finally, stepping back to assess the completed arrangement. "What do you think?"

Theo studied it with his characteristic thoroughness, head tilting slightly as he considered every angle. "The composition demonstrates exceptional balance between structure and spontaneity. The color progression creates a visual narrative that enhances the emotional impact."

I smiled, warmth spreading through me at his uniquely Theo compliment. "So you like it?"

The corner of his mouth, “Very much so.” His eyes drifted from the arrangement to my face, his analytical gaze softening with an emotion that still surprised me sometimes. "Much like my appreciation for its creator."

I felt warmth bloom in my cheeks at his words. Theo might not be flowery with his compliments like Lucas, but when he did express affection, the precision of his words made them all the more meaningful.

"Thank you," I said softly, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. "For the compliment and for coming early."

"It was a logical decision," Theo replied, though the slight curve of his lips betrayed his pleasure. "Your presence has a statistically significant positive effect on my serotonin levels."

I laughed, shaking my head. "You could just say you missed me."

"I missed you," Theo acknowledged, his voice softer than usual. "Though that phrasing lacks the specificity I prefer."

I felt a warmth spreading through my chest at his words. This was Theo—seeing the world through his analytical lens yet finding ways to express emotion with his own unique precision. Over these past months, I'd come to treasure these moments when his carefully constructed walls lowered just enough to reveal the depth of feeling behind them.

The shop door chimed again, and we both turned to see Dakota entering. His imposing frame filled the doorway momentarily before he stepped inside, his dark eyes immediately finding us among the flowers. He moved with that quiet grace that belied his size, acknowledging Mia and Jamie with a slight nod as he passed.

"You're early," I said, pleasure warming my voice as he approached.

"I finished the paperwork as quickly as I could," Dakota explained, his deep voice rumbling through me as he stopped beside us. His eyes took in the arrangement I'd been working on, his expression softening. "Beautiful," he said simply, the single word carrying more weight from his usually silent lips than paragraphs from anyone else.

"Thank you," I replied, warmth spreading through me at his approval. Dakota wasn't one for excessive words, but when he spoke, he meant exactly what he said.

"Are Gabriel and Lucas meeting us at the house?" I asked, beginning to clean up my workspace as closing time approached.

Dakota nodded. "Gabriel's finishing a call with the security team. Lucas is cooking dinner."

---