My fingers went to my chest, holding my heart, as it felt like it was going to burst. With my free hand, I picked up the flowers, the plastic sleeve they were in crinkling while I pressed the soft, velvety petals to my nose.

“Dreamy, right?” Emily said from the doorway.

I was lost in the smell, an aroma that drowned out the antibacterial gel I’d practically bathed in during my shift and the hospital stench that stuck to every part of me.

I turned around and faced her. “They’re stunning.” I took another whiff, leaving my face buried in their beauty. “Were they delivered?”

She nodded toward the card. “Open it, silly.”

I filled my lungs one last time and set down the flowers to peel back the flap of the envelope. Caleb’s initials were embossed on the front of the thick navy stock. His thin, all capital letters filled the white space inside.

Whitney,

It’s time to get you out of the city. New Hampshire wasn’t nearly far enough.

Pack a suitcase and dress for the heat.

I’ll see you at eight tomorrow morning.

Sweet dreams,

Caleb

P.S. My guess is that roses aren’t your favorite flower, but when I saw these, the shape of the petals reminded me of your lips, and the softness felt just like your skin. Therefore, I had to buy them.

“I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to marry that man,” Emily said.

I looked up, feeling my eyes widen, my head shaking in awe. “I’m overwhelmed by his thoughtfulness.”

She handed me my beer; I hadn’t realized she’d been holding it. “You see, Whit, that’s why he’s crazy about you.” She took ahold of my ponytail and twirled it around her finger. “I would imagine the women that Caleb’s dated in the past expected all kinds of fancy things, given that the dude is clearly loaded. Like shoes with red bottoms and LV stitched into everything. You, on the other hand, die over flowers and eggplant parm. Trust me, babe, he’s overwhelmed by your humbleness.” Her hand stilled as she looked at my hair. “If he saw you right now on day three of dry shampoo, reeking of antiseptic, he’d probably sweep you off your feet instead of throwing you in the shower, where you belong.”

“Stop. I’m exhausted, and the tears will come very easily at this point.” Moving the beer out of the way, I wrapped my arms around Emily, hugging her as tightly as I could. “I don’t know what I would do without you.”