Chapter 54: The First Thread of Friendship

Elena Whitmore did not return to Bloom House Floral that day.

That, in itself, was the difference.

Instead, she sent a message through a channel so ordinary it would never be traced to her if someone chose to look too closely. A florist supplier. A shared contact. A note written without ceremony.

If you have time this afternoon, I would value a conversation. Not in your shop.

Lillian considered the message longer than necessary.

Then she replied with a single address and a time.

They met in a n