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I can hear the excitement in her voice and can’t help but smile. “That sounds amazing! I just remembered that it’s on the list of things for tomorrow.”
Rose goes on to describe the vibrant blooms, elegant arrangements, and the intricate details the florist shared.
“Aria, I’ve never been so excited about flowers in my life. Tomorrow is going to be like stepping into a dream!”
I chuckle, envisioning Rose surrounded by a sea of flowers.
“Well, I guess we both can’t wait to go on this floral adventure. What time should I meet you at the florist?”
“Let’s aim for ten a.m.., that should give us enough time to explore and make the final selections. It’s going to be so much fun!”
I agree, feeling the anticipation building for another day filled with wedding preparations. “Sounds perfect, Rose. I’ll see you at the florist at ten a.m. sharp.”
After our call, I decide to wind down for the night. As I prepare for bed, thoughts of floral arrangements and color palettes dance in my mind. The day has been a whirlwind of joy, and as I slip under the covers, I can’t help but feel grateful for the friendship that has blossomed over the years.
With the promise of another exciting day ahead, I drift off to sleep, dreaming of flowers and laughter, knowing that Rose and I are crafting the perfect tapestry of memories for her upcoming wedding.
***
The next morning, as I rush to the meeting with the florist, I collide with someone, sending papers flying. I look up, and there he is—Cade, another childhood friend and ex-boyfriend. His sharp gaze meets mine, and I notice the familiar furrow on his forehead that always accompanied his grumpy demeanor.
“Watch where you’re going, Aria,” he grumbles, bending down to retrieve the scattered papers. I can’t help but smile at the irony of his stern words coming from the lips of someone I used to walk hand in hand within these very streets.
“Cade, fancy meeting you here, funny how you remember my name,” I reply, a playful twinkle in my eye. “I didn’t know corporate big shots had time for quaint little towns.”
He smirks, a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “Just in town for the wedding, but I have business everywhere, you know…and why would I forget your name?”
As we exchange pleasantries, memories of our childhood flood back—bike rides, ice cream trucks, and dreams shared under the stars. Then the familiar heartache sets in remembering when we were in love, but he ended up breaking my heart.
“How have you been? it’s been almost a decade,” he asks as if concerned.
“I’m great, just a little busy these days.”
“Yeah, I heard you own a bakery now,”” he says like he’s been doing his research.
“Yeah, it’s just downtown. You should stop by someday.”
“Yeah, I’ll think about it.”
The painful pang in my heart is momentarily forgotten as we share a few laughs, the familiarity easing the tension between us.
Eagerly awaiting Rose’s arrival, I glance at my watch,
“You’re expecting something?”
“More like someone.” Before I was done with my statement, I notice her rushing towards us, her expression a mix of excitement and mild panic.
“Aria, I’m so sorry I’m late! Traffic was a nightmare,” Rose exclaims, breathless but still radiating enthusiasm.
I grin, waving off her apology. “No worries, Rose. You made it, and that’s what matters. At least I have had someone to talk to.” I turn to Cade, who stands beside me, a hint of surprise in his eyes.
“Cade, you remember Rose.” I introduce with a playful glint in my eye.
Rose extends her hand, a friendly smile on her face. “Welcome back to Sweet Haven, Cade.”
As the three of us exchange pleasantries, I notice a flicker of recognition in Rose’s eyes. “So, Cade, it’s been a while since we have seen you around town,” she says, a teasing smile forming on her lips.
Cade nods, a smirk playing on his face. “The city keeps me busy.”
