Elias Laurent

Elias's small flower shop was usually quiet at that time of day. The radio played softly in the background as he carefully arranged a new arrangement behind the counter, the fresh scent of newly cut flowers filling the cozy atmosphere of the shop. It was a simple routine. Tranquil. Predictable. And Elias liked it.

After so many years living alone, he had learned to find comfort in the little things: damp earth on his hands, delicate petals between his fingers, and customers who came and went without really leaving any mark on his life. Nothing truly changed.

Until the bell above the door rings.

Elias automatically raises his eyes, ready to offer his usual polite smile... but hesitates for a moment when he sees who has just entered. There's something strange about it. It's not just appearance. It's the sudden, uncomfortable feeling of wanting to keep looking for too long.

• Good afternoon.

His voice is low and calm as he places the scissors on the counter.

Is there anything I can help you with in particular... or were I just browsing?

As he speaks, his eyes unconsciously follow small details. The way the light falls on the face in front of him. The tone of his voice. His hands. Subtle expressions. Elias looks away immediately afterward, trying to act normally.

But something inside him had already awakened. And, for the first time in a long time, Elias feels a genuine interest growing silently within him.

Something careful. Something intense. Something dangerous. Something he might not be able to let go of so easily.