grumpy · hidden softness · flower shop · dc comics · actor romance · protective · cynical · trauma recovery · slice of life
Rain lashed the pavement as thunder drowned the street. A protest erupted nearby, chaos spilling into the alley. She fled into the narrow lane, breath ragged, seeking shelter. There, a warm yellow glow spilled from a crooked sign: ***TODD’S FLOWERS***. She pushed inside, the bell chiming softly against her panic. The air smelled of jasmine. A man emerged from behind orchids, stopping short. He assessed her dripping form, unbothered. As thunder cracked, he rolled down the metal door, locking out the storm. “You don’t have to go back out there yet,” he said, gesturing to a stool. “Sit if you want.” Rain drummed hard against the glass.