Spring has sprung, and with it, smiley faces. When yellow crocuses bloom all over town in the shape of an emoji during April’s first warm days, reporter Nero Storm is sent out to discover their meaning and origin.<br><br>Nero has little to smile about himself, what with dysfunctional family drama and a tragic love life. The previous fall, it seemed as if he might have finally met the man of his dreams in dog daddy, ride share operator, and charity organizer Z. Though the two spent but ten morning and evening car rides together, sparks flew. Unfortunately, at the end of that time, Nero witnessed a crime, and Z disappeared.<br><br>Now, as the rest of the world looks forward to a new beginning promised by spring, Nero is left to wonder. Are the smiley face flowers a message for him, and will he ever see Z’s smile again for real?

21 Smiles

“He can’t come to your house, because he doesn’t know where you live!” Carmen had a point, one’d she made by shaking me zealously with each syllable.


“You moved. Maybe he went to your old apartment. Maybe he’s there right now! Maybe there’s a trail of rose petals to your door or something, and he’s waiting for you to come home.”


“Crocus petals would be more appropriate,” I muttered.


“Too small.” Carmen stood. “Too hard to pluck.” She yanked. “Let’s take a ride.”


Abby was game. She was at the door, her tail wagging excitedly in no time. As for me, “I don’t wanna. It’s been a long day, and I like my sister’s couch,” I needed more prodding.


“Get up.” When Carmen tugged again, Abby got in on the act, nipping at my pant cuffs and shoelaces.


Resistance was futile when I was double teamed.


“Let’s blow this story wide open, Nero.”


Chapter 36