They walked along the path by the pond, side by side, close enough that their hands brushed occasionally.
The park was quiet just the rustle of leaves, the distant sound of water, the soft murmur of the world continuing around them.
Alex had taken off his sunglasses, tucking them into his pocket.
Here, in this hidden corner of the city, he could breathe. He could just be.
"So," Leo said, glancing at the flowers in his hand. "Flowers, huh?"
Alex's face went slightly pink. "Was it too much? I wasn't sure if—"
"It's not too much." Leo's smile was soft, genuine. "It's perfect. I just... I've never gotten flowers before."
Alex stopped walking, turning to face him. "Never?"
"Never."
"Not even on a birthday? Or—?"
Leo shook his head. "My birthday's usually spent working. And I've never really... dated anyone. Not like this."
Alex's expression softened. "Well, now you have. Flowers, I mean. And if you want, I'll get you more. Anytime."
