She smiles at the bouquet in her arms, the note, scented with the powdered softness of almonds, tucked into her pocket. She won’t tell anyone, not just yet. For now, they wonder who’s sent this bouquet for her, a riot of white flowers, fresh and nodding in the spring air, tied up with white ribbon and a little note. Magnolias and lemon blossoms, the spirit of a new season, of youth and hope, and promises. She gathers them in her arms and walks down the street, her step light, her heart in flight.