The city was still asleep as the first light of February 14th crept through the curtains and gently touched Alex's face.He blinked,the grogginess of sleep slowly fading,replaced by a sense of purpose.Today was Valentine's Day,and it was a day he looked forward to every year.Not because of the commercialized romance or the bustling streets filled with couples,but because it was a day to celebrateher.
Alex rolled out of bed and stretched,feeling the familiar stiffness in his muscles.He glanced at the clock—6:30 AM.Plenty of time.He needed to make today special.He walked to the small desk in the corner of his apartment and picked up the notebook where he had jotted down his plans.The first item on the list:flowers.
Emily loved flowers.Not the extravagant bouquets from high-end shops,but the simple,fragrant ones from the little flower stall near their favorite park.It was a tradition they had started years ago,and Alex was determined to keep it alive.
He quickly got dressed,pulling on a sweater and jeans.The air outside was crisp,carrying the faint scent of snow.Alex took a deep breath,feeling the cold air fill his lungs.It was a beautiful day,despite the chill.
The flower stall was already set up when he arrived.Mrs.Thompson,the elderly woman who ran it,smiled warmly as she saw him approaching.She had known Alex and Emily since the beginning,and she always had a special spot in her heart for the young couple.
"Good morning,Alex,"she greeted,her voice soft but cheerful."Looking for something special today?"
He nodded,his eyes scanning the colorful array of flowers."Emily loves these,"he said,pointing to a small bouquet of white lilies and pink roses."Can I get a dozen,please?"
Mrs.Thompson nodded and began arranging the flowers.As she worked,Alex's mind drifted back to their first Valentine's Day together.It had been simple—a walk in the park,a small bouquet,and a heartfelt note.But it had been perfect.Emily's eyes had sparkled with joy as she took the flowers,and they had spent the rest of the day exploring the city,hand in hand.
"Here you are,"Mrs.Thompson said,handing him the bouquet."These will make her smile."
Alex took the flowers,feeling a warmth in his chest."Thank you,"he said sincerely."They're perfect."
As he walked away,he couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia.Every year,he tried to make Valentine's Day special,but this year felt different.Maybe it was the way the city seemed quieter,or maybe it was just him.Either way,he was determined to make today unforgettable.
He made his way to the park,the familiar path bringing back memories of their countless walks together.The park was still mostly empty,the early morning light casting a soft glow on the frost-covered ground.Alex found their special spot—a small bench near the pond where they had shared many quiet moments.
He sat down and carefully placed the bouquet on the bench beside him.As he looked around,he could almost see Emily sitting there,her laughter filling the air.He closed his eyes,letting the memories wash over him.
"Happy Valentine's Day,Emily,"he whispered,his voice barely audible."I hope these flowers make you smile."
For a moment,he sat there in silence,feeling a sense of peace.Then,with a deep breath,he stood up and gathered the bouquet.There was still so much to do today,and he was determined to make every moment count.
As he walked away,the sun began to rise higher,casting a warm light on the city.Alex felt a renewed sense of purpose.Today was just the beginning,and he was ready to honor their love,one gift at a time.