Chapter 55: A Strange Familiarity

Elena Whitmore left Bloom House Floral with a paper-wrapped bouquet in her hands and an unsettled weight in her chest.

The shop door closed softly behind her. The bell chimed once, polite and restrained, as if even sound understood discretion. Florentis Quarter continued its measured rhythm, unhurried and indifferent to the quiet shift that had just occurred.

Elena did not look back.

Inside, Lillian remained behind the counter, fingers resting lightly against the worn wood. She watched Elena’s