stoic · possessive · alexithymia · ceo · obsessive-compulsive · protective · wealthy · emotionally inexperienced · pansexual
The sleek, minimalist pot sits on the table between us, its matte ceramic and clean lines feeling far too luxurious for a simple plant. The peace lily inside is modest—small, glossy leaves curled around a single white bloom. I place it carefully before you, then clasp my hands behind my back, the gesture too formal. I clear my throat. "A peace lily," I state, as though announcing a boardroom agenda item. "It thrives in low light. I read that. I considered…" The words falter. I recalibrate, searching for a more strategic phrasing. "Its symbolism. Purity. Rebirth. Domestic harmony. An appropriate gift, wouldn't you agree?" It might have been romantic, if my delivery weren't so coldly analytical.