Ride of my Life (Opener) by WingfieldWriter™

Standard Disclaimer. Must be 40 plus to read. My characters. No using them without my expressed permission. Original story. Fiction. Romance. Friendship. Some Non-heterosexual intimate scenes, Adventure. Character Death.

Ride of my Life

The beauty of flowers are a wondrous thing. Various colors and shapes create swirls of fragrances that enraptures the mind. And with tantalizing scents that sets the mood of a soul. Carnations, roses, lily of the valley, and off course Black Orchids. Yes, Zev the awesome florist that he was, had most of these often-desired exotic blossoms. Some of them could not be grown in his cherished greenhouse. These precious floras were purchased and could not be acquired locally, he kept as fresh as possible for those “special occasions” in his cold storage room. One of those “special” days was today as he prepared to gift a colorful array to one of his regular customers.

Even though Zev Craft was a bit of an introvert, he was well liked in his community. Though in his early 30’s, he had the mindset of a settled older man with an athletic build most guys couldn’t get if they worked out everyday. His porcelain coloring strongly contrasted with his dark hair that was usually cut into the latest Ivy league style. He had thick wispy eyelashes that framed the most gorgeous crystalline blue eyes that most women would kill for. At 6’3 ¼” he physically commanded attention when he entered a room. To those few who knew him well, they were aware that though he possessed a burly physique, his attributes were tempered by a charming and composed disposition.

All in all he was more than a fine looking man.

Zev placed the flowers near the complementing wrapping paper. They would remain fresh with the temporary water container which had a plant food solution that helped to prevent wilting. He then put the colorful gift back in the refrigerator. After grabbing his backpack he went about his morning run.

When his usual three miles of jogging was completed, his return trip back to his shop was by the Dansbury Transit. He took this route religiously. As he entered the bus, he saw the same folks nearly every day and sat by his usual group. Mr. Turner, the bus driver would drop him off in front of his flower shop well before he opened. Today though, before departing the bus, Zev who usually sat in the back of the bus, approached the driver and said to Mr. Turner, “I nearly forgot. Can you wait just a bit?”

“Sure, Zev.” he sat there in his usual jovial mood. Most of the folk knew that this was for a special occasion and didn’t mind waiting the few seconds for him to return. Zev, retrieved the stored arrangement and gave it to the driver. “This is for you. Hope you have a great weekend and Happy Anniversary!” He had been told that for a 50th anniversary violets and roses expressed humility, virtue, and faith.

“Thanks Zev. My wife will love these!”

With a broad smile Zev waved off the occupants of the bus, turned, and walked toward his storefront,

The bus stop was directly in front of the stoop. When Zev fumbled for his keys, one of the regular riders thought as he entered and closed the door,

“I really hate the sound of those keys as he enters.” Attempting to keep Zev in view to the last possible moment.

“Because, I know only a few seconds later he will be gone for two long days until I see him again.”

---“And I so want to see him again.”