Chapter 34: An Invitation

Chapter 34: An Invitation

The next day, Lila decided to give herself a break. For once, she left the shop's shutters closed, the "Closed for the Day" sign hanging on the door. She told herself it was just to run errands, but deep down, she knew it was a chance to breathe.

By noon, the sun hung high in the sky, and Lila found herself wandering through a small outdoor market near the shopping mall. The vibrant stalls of flower pots, handmade crafts, and colorful trinkets provided a distraction from the weight that usually pressed on her chest.

She stopped at a stall selling ceramic flower pots, running her fingers over their smooth, painted surfaces. Each pot was unique, adorned with floral patterns or whimsical designs. Lila picked up one with soft lavender hues, thinking it would be perfect for the violets she had at the shop.

"Do you ever take a day off?"

The familiar voice made her turn abruptly. Ethan stood a few feet away, holding a shopping bag in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other. His presence, as unexpected as it was, didn't feel intrusive.

"Shouldn't I be asking you that?" she replied, trying to hide her surprise.

He grinned, stepping closer. "Touché. But seriously, I thought florists worked round the clock."

"I decided to close the shop today," Lila admitted, setting the flower pot back on the table. "Needed to get some things done."

"Good for you," Ethan said, his tone warm. "Everyone needs a break now and then."

They stood there for a moment, the hum of the market filling the space between them. Lila found herself feeling strangely comfortable around him, even in a setting that usually made her anxious.

Ethan glanced at the flower pots, then back at her. "You have an eye for these, don't you?"

"It's part of the job," she said with a small smile.

"Which one are you getting?" he asked.

"This one," she said, picking up the lavender pot again.

Ethan nodded approvingly. "Good choice. It suits you."

Lila raised an eyebrow. "How does a flower pot suit someone?"

He shrugged, his grin widening. "I don't know. It just does."

She shook her head, a faint laugh escaping her lips.

As she paid for the pot, Ethan stayed by her side, sipping his coffee. When she turned to leave, he fell into step beside her.

"So, what's next on your list?" he asked.

"I was just going to look around a bit more," Lila replied, feeling slightly self-conscious about how easily he had joined her.

Ethan nodded, as if that was answer enough. They strolled through the market together, exchanging light conversation. Lila found herself easing into his company, his easygoing nature breaking through her usual wariness.

As they passed a stall selling wooden carvings, Ethan stopped and picked up a small figure of a cat.

"This reminds me of my niece," he said, holding it up for Lila to see.

"She likes cats?" Lila asked.

"Loves them," he replied. "She has three. Well, technically, her parents have three."

Lila smiled, the mention of his niece sparking curiosity. "How old is she?"

"She's turning eight tomorrow," Ethan said. "Actually, that reminds me..." He hesitated for a moment, then turned to her. "I was wondering if you'd like to come to her birthday party."

The question caught Lila off guard. "Me? Why?"

"Well," Ethan began, scratching the back of his neck, "you're the expert on flowers, and I thought it'd be nice if you delivered the bouquet personally. Plus, it might be fun. She's a sweet kid, and there's going to be cake."

Lila hesitated. The idea of attending a stranger's birthday party felt overwhelming, but there was something disarming about the way Ethan invited her, as if he genuinely wanted her to be there.

"I don't know," she said, her voice uncertain. "I'm not sure it's my place."

"Think about it," Ethan said, his tone reassuring. "No pressure."

They continued walking, the conversation shifting to lighter topics. As they approached the edge of the market, Ethan suddenly stopped.

"Hey, I just realized something," he said.

"What?"

"I don't have your number," he said, his tone casual but his eyes twinkling mischievously.

Lila narrowed her eyes, sensing his playful intent. "And why would you need my number?"

"To coordinate the bouquet delivery," he said with a grin. "You know, in case you decide to come to the party."

Lila hesitated, her instincts telling her to keep her distance. But something about Ethan's earnest expression made her relent.

"Fine," she said, pulling out her phone. "But only for the bouquet."

"Of course," Ethan said, his grin widening as he handed her his phone.

She typed in her number and handed it back to him. Ethan looked at the screen and nodded, satisfied.

"Thanks," he said. "I'll send you the details."

Lila watched as he turned and walked away, his coffee in one hand and his shopping bag in the other. For a moment, she stood there, the flower pot in her arms and a strange mix of emotions swirling inside her.

As she made her way back to her car, she couldn't help but wonder how Ethan had managed to weave his way into her life so effortlessly. Part of her was wary, unsure of what it all meant. But another part—a part she hadn't felt in a long time—was curious.

Curious about what might happen next.