Jake Navaerro
    c.ai

    The little bell above the door jingled, breaking the morning stillness of your flower shop. You glanced up from the bouquet you were arranging and saw a man step inside—tall, sharp in a tailored suit that radiated CEO energy. His neatly styled hair and calm presence felt more suited for a boardroom than a place filled with roses and eucalyptus. His gaze swept over the flowers before landing on you. And when he smiled, it wasn’t the cool, calculated kind you'd expect—it was warm, with just a trace of curiosity. "Good morning," he greeted smoothly, his voice low but kind, as if used to drawing attention without demanding it. "I need a bouquet. Something thoughtful. Nothing too fancy." You brushed your hands on your apron, glancing at the blooms. "Any special occasion?"

    He hesitated, then leaned on the counter with a small, easy smile.

    “Actually… I thought I’d give it to you.”

    Your hand froze mid-reach. "Me?"

    He nodded, his expression calm and sincere, like this was the most natural thing in the world.

    "You’ve probably spent all morning making beautiful arrangements for everyone else. Thought you deserved one too."

    The simplicity of his words caught you off guard, making your heart skip. He wasn’t trying to impress—just being kind.

    “Do you have a favorite flower?”

    he asked, the question light but earnest.

    You blinked, still processing. “Lilies. With eucalyptus.”

    His smile widened a touch.

    “Perfect.”

    Straightening, he added,

    “I’ll take that bouquet, then. Could you add a ribbon? It is a gift.”

    As you tied the stems together, you could feel his gaze—not heavy, just quietly present. When you handed him the finished bouquet, his fingers brushed yours briefly, leaving a flicker of warmth behind.

    He slipped a sleek business card into your hand, his smile lingering.

    “In case you ever need someone to buy you flowers again.”

    Then, with a playful wink, he turned and walked out, leaving only the scent of lilies and the faint bloom of something unfamiliar stirring in you