The Passion of the Florist
I giggle, ”I’m sure one kiss from wanderlust will make you forget all about Annecy and me.” ”I’ll never forget you Chloé,” he promises as he envelops my neck with a delicate heart-shaped locket. “I hope you won’t either.” It’s been a year since I last saw Sacha but I feel his presence like an aurora dancing around me. One moment his glow emblazons my heart and the next moment, he fades like a distant star across a faraway galaxy.
Living in the French countryside all my life has nurtured my dreamy spirit. Ever since I was young, entering a flower shop has always been a bewitching experience for me: all the way from the teasing scents and the ravishing shades, to the spectacular arrangements that send my senses blazing.
Now I work as a florist at Fleurs du Lac. Today, the shop is awash with red roses for a special order this afternoon. As I tie the blooms into ravishing knots, I feel my heart constrict with longing and once again, memories play their bittersweet tunes.
He was an aspiring travel writer and was commissioned a travel guide on Annecy. He had been looking for a local to guide him through the town’s stunning gardens. I obliged and that rendezvous sparked something magical between us.
Gardeners are gifted caregivers. I realized I have been nurturing his love in my heart, hoping it would someday blossom. But it’s had an altogether opposite effect on me; leaving me lonely and delusional. It was time to let go.
I get off work and sit by the pier overlooking the lake. The sun starts to set, streaking the sky with pastel watercolors. I unclasp my locket and I’m ready to toss it, along with my memories, never to resurface again.
Suddenly, the reflection of my broken soul ripples as a boat emerges out of nowhere. I look up and I behold a fairytale.
The boat is filled with crimson roses and Sacha was smiling from ear to ear, “You didn’t think I’d forget you, did you?” He reveals his published travel guide and says excitedly, “The editor loved it! He’s asked me to write about other places. Please say you’ll see the world with me, Chloé.” He reaches his hands out for me and I accept. Who could say no to love?
© Image credit: Audrey – Charming Fashion Theme