Page 44 of Ashes of the Past
Stop thinking these things, Brynn.
“Yeah, but my mom deserves better than grocery store flowers.”
“You’re right, she does.”
“So, you’ll help me out here?”
I roll my eyes, but I can’t help the small smile that tugs at my lips. “Fine. It’s going to cost you, though, since it’s such late notice. What does she like?”
Jack steps closer, his gaze steady on mine. “Surprise me.”
I cock an eyebrow at him and give him a displeased look. “It’s your mom’s birthday. I will not surprise you.” I step back from the counter, hands on my hips, staring at him in exasperation.
“What’s wrong with that?” he asks, leaning against the counter. His hat casts a shadow over his face, but I can still see the challenge in his expression.
“What’s wrong with that?” I echo, stepping closer, “is that anyone can throw together a bouquet. But the meaningful part,the part that shows someone how loved and special they are, is when you actually put thought into it. Like remembering their favorite flower or picking out blooms that remind you of them. Not something corny like, ‘Oh, sunflowers because she reminds me of the sun.’” I roll my eyes for emphasis. “Your mom deserves real thought and feelings put into these flowers.”
He straightens, his smirk fading. He looks at me like he’s seeing something new. “You really care about this, don’t you?”
“Of course I do,” I say, softening. “Flowers aren’t just pretty things to stick in a vase. They’re memories, emotions, stories. When I make an arrangement, I’m not just putting together colors and shapes. I’m telling someone’s story.”
He watches me closely, his eyes searching mine. It’s unnerving like he’s peeling back layers I didn’t even know I had.
Or is he lost in a memory?
“Tiger lilies,” he says finally, his voice quieter now. “My dad used to bring my mom tiger lilies before he died. She’d always light up when she saw them. But…” He hesitates, rubbing the back of his neck. “I want something that shows her strength. Her resilience. She’s been through a lot, and she’s still standing.”
I nod slowly, my mind already whirring. “Tiger lilies, definitely. They’re bold, vibrant, full of life. For resilience… maybe protea. They’re hardy, unique, and they symbolize courage. And for strength…” I trail off, scanning the shop. “Gladiolus. They’re striking, and they’re all about strength of character.”
He watches me as I speak, his gaze steady and intense. A small smile tugs at the corners of his mouth, his eyes crinkling softly. My stomach flips again at the sight. I blow out a small breath.
Calm down, Brynn.
“That sounds perfect,” he says gruffly.
I glance at him, surprised by his tone. “Really? You trust me to get it right?”
“I do,” he says simply. “The grocery store clerk definitely wouldn’t have just yelled at me for grabbing a random bouquet.”
“They didn’t make flowers their life’s purpose.”
“I guess you’re right.”
There’s a moment of silence between us. Then I clear my throat and turn back to the flowers. “Okay, let’s get started.”
As I work, I explain each choice, thinking out loud. “We’ll start with a base of greenery to give it structure. Maybe some eucalyptus for its soothing scent. Then the tiger lilies as the focal point, surrounded by the protea and gladiolus. I’ll add some softer blooms, like lisianthus, to balance it out. And maybe a touch of baby’s breath for a hint of delicacy.”
He doesn’t say much, but I can feel his eyes on me the whole time. It’s distracting, and I have to force myself to focus on the arrangement instead of the way his presence fills the room.
Maybe I should have taken this to the back room to do instead of right out here where he could watch me. His eyes, the way they watch me like a lion stalking its prey, it’s so unnerving.
My entire body is on high alert.
I can feel myself fumbling around awkwardly, my cheeks heating up as he continues to watch me.
Hurry up and get this done before I overheat!
When I’m done, I step back and gesture to the bouquet. “What do you think?”
