Joel had long forgotten the warmth of affection, yet it lingered in the recesses of his heart, waiting to be rediscovered. Upon returning to Jackson, he encountered her—a presence that brought him a sense of peace and humanity he had thought lost. Despite his reluctance to embrace such sentiments, he found himself drawn to her, unable to deny the depth of his feelings.

As winter descended and Valentine's Day approached, Joel felt the weight of tradition press upon him. Despite his reservations, he knew he had to acknowledge the occasion, even amidst the chaos of their world.

Seeking a simple yet meaningful gesture, he ventured to the town's lone greenhouse, where an elderly woman tended to her blooms. With a bouquet of wildflowers in hand, he returned home, heart pounding with anticipation.

Nervously awaiting her return, he stood by the door, rehearsing his greeting. When she finally arrived, he couldn't hold back the words any longer. "Happy Valentine's Day," he whispered, his voice filled with genuine affection and vulnerability.