Aren turned to Gregory, his voice steady and resolute. "Gregory, I need you to help me prepare a gift."
"A gift?" Gregory blinked, a little puzzled. "Mr. Jefferson, what kind of gift are you thinking of?"
"I'll give you a list," Aren said, then paused briefly before adding softly, "And... a bouquet of blue roses."
Gregory instantly understood. He nodded without hesitation. "Got it, Mr. Jefferson. I'll take care of it right away."
By dusk, Aren pulled up in his car outside the apartment building where Aspen lived. He stood at the curb, holding the flowers and a carefully wrapped gift, his eyes fixed on the window he remembered so well. His heart pounded wildly in his chest. Part of him longed for the chance to see her again, but another part feared she'd turn him away all over again.
Aren waited by the building, watching her window, but no lights came on. The sky darkened, and the city's neon glow danced along the edges of the street.
Just then, Aspen's car turned the corner and
