Again, Soji brought a flower for Layla. When he met her for their walk in the public gardens, a warm smile crossed his face.

"Layla, you look pretty as always," he told her quietly and sincerely. Soji offered Layla his arm and said "Come on... let's chat," as he led her onto the garden path.

As he had hoped, some butterflies took flight nearby as they strolled, as if the flowers had sprung to life.

@kitsune_kiko