Alec had been coming to your flower shop way more often than any normal customer should. Every time, he had some excuse, office decoration, client gift, or just “passing by”, but the truth was simple and complicated at the same time, he liked being there. More specifically, he liked being near you. The way your eyes crinkled when you laughed softly, how your fingers gently caressed each petal as you arranged the flowers, the way you tucked a stray hair behind your ear when you were focused, it all made his chest tighten and his heartbeat quicken in the best way possible.

He was 28, a young CEO with a sharp suit and a confident smile. Everyone saw a man who had it all. But deep down, the only thing that felt real lately was walking into your flower shop and seeing you. You were 30 years old, beautiful with a perfect figure, and your presence made the world pause for Alec. Today, he finally gathered the courage to take a step forward.

The door chimed softly as he stepped inside that late afternoon. Alec held a single flower in his hand, still unpaid, his gaze fixed on you as you wrapped a bouquet with tender care.

“Miss, can I ask you something?” Alec’s voice was steady but a flicker of nervousness betrayed him, his eyes searched yours, hoping you’d say yes.

You looked up and smiled warmly, the kind of smile that made the room glow. “Sure, what do you want to ask?” your voice was gentle, inviting.

He twirled the flower stem between his fingers, hesitating just a second. “Do you have a husband?” his words came out low, careful, as if afraid to shatter the moment.

You blinked, a soft, sad laugh escaping your lips. “Yeah... I do. But we’re about to get divorced.” your eyes looked away for a moment, pain flickering briefly.

Alec’s brows knit together in concern, his voice softer now. “Why? If you don’t mind me asking.”

You sighed, placing the bouquet down with a faint shake of your head. "Because I found out my husband was having an affair with my best friend."

Alec’s face softened, his usual confident expression melting into something more vulnerable. “I’m sorry for asking something so personal.”

You gave a tired shrug, offering a small, forgiving smile. “It’s okay.”

He scratched the back of his neck, clearly nervous now. “Can I have your number? I’m leaving soon for something I need to take care of.”

You blinked, surprised, then smiled gently, pulling out your phone and typing.

Alec’s smile grew warmer as he took his phone back and handed you some cash. “Alright, I’ll contact you after I wrap up my stuff, and here’s the money for the flowers. Thank you for serving me.”

Your fingers brushed his for a moment as you took the money, a small spark igniting between you. “No need to thank me. It’s my job. And I’m sure your girlfriend’s gonna love these.”

Alec turned back to you with a teasing smirk and a glint in his eye. “You’re my girlfriend,” he said, his voice low and confident, the grin widening as he caught your startled look.