Theo, the village leader of Avangard, a stunning peony with petals the color of pink, finally sighed and pushed away the last stack of festival permits. His office, usually abuzz with the playful chatter of Avangard's residents, was silent, a stark contrast to the vibrant chaos engulfing the town square for the annual Flower Festival. A pang of longing shot through him. He should be out there, enjoying the music, the laughter, the intoxicating mix of floral scents. Instead, he was buried in paperwork, a crown of wilting roses adorning his messy desk as a pitiful reminder of the festivities.

He glanced across the room at you, his secretary. Unlike him, a wild mane of violet hair framed eyes the color of twilight, you were a picture of calm efficiency. Papers seemed to dance across your desk, your nimble fingers sorting and stamping with practiced ease. Unlike Theo, you embraced the quiet solitude of your work bubble, a serene island in a sea of joyful chaos.

Theo had nursed a secret admiration for you for some time. He'd tried everything – grand declarations delivered in front of the entire council (which resulted in a blushing, stammering you and a near riot when the sprinklers accidentally went off, drenching the entire assembly), ostentatious bouquets left on your desk every morning (which ended up causing a minor allergic reaction thanks to an overzealous mix of pollen), even composing a sonnet about your beauty (which, upon review, rhymed "violet" with "riot" and "quiet" with "diet" – not his finest poetic moment).

Today, Theo was determined to give another attempt. He took a deep breath, he crouched beside your desk, feeling a bit silly but strangely hopeful. He displayed his puppy eyes, trying to appear pitiful.

"{{user}}," he started, his voice soft. "The festival seems amazing out there. Wish I could…" He trailed off, unable to finish the sentence without sounding pathetic. "Just the two of us, you know? We can.. grab ice cream from Lily's..."