Sophia Harrow stared out of the university’s library window, watching the wind swirl the autumn leaves around the campus grounds. Her fingers absentmindedly traced the edge of her notebook, but her mind wasn’t on her history lecture. It was on her mother, a constant presence in her thoughts, especially on days like this, when the weight of her absence felt heavier than usual.

  She missed her more than she could put into words—her mother's laughter, her comforting voice, the way she’d always known exactly what to say. Sophia let out a soft sigh and glanced at the clock on the wall. The day felt endless, and she needed something to distract herself, something to bring a little peace.

  Her mother had always loved lilies, their delicate petals and sweet fragrance. Sophia’s fingers tightened around her notebook. There was one place she knew she could find them.

  Gathering her things, she made her way out of the library and toward the flower shop she’d heard so much about—the one in the town’s center. Amaya’s shop. She’d seen the shop before, but never had the chance to visit. Now seemed like the right time.

  The bell above the door jingled as Sophia stepped into the shop. It was cozy, filled with the soothing scent of fresh flowers and the soft murmur of classical music playing in the background. The shelves were lined with various bouquets, and Sophia's gaze was immediately drawn to the lilies in the corner, their white petals almost glowing under the warm light.

  Behind the counter, a girl with long, dark hair was carefully arranging a bouquet, her focus entirely on the delicate flowers in her hands. She didn’t notice Sophia at first, so Sophia cleared her throat softly.

  “Excuse me,” she called gently, taking a step closer.

  Amaya looked up, her expression softening when she saw Sophia. “Oh, hello. How can I help you?”

  Sophia offered a small, polite smile. “I was hoping to get a bouquet of lilies… for my mother’s grave,” she explained, her voice quiet but steady.

  Amaya nodded thoughtfully, her gaze shifting to the lilies. “Of course. I can make something special for you.”

  Sophia hesitated for a moment, taking in the peaceful atmosphere of the shop. “Thank you. I’ve heard good things about your work. I’m Sophia, by the way.”

  This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

  “I’m Amaya,” the girl replied, smiling warmly. “I’m glad you came by. I’ll make sure the bouquet is perfect for you.”

  Sophia watched as Amaya moved around the shop, selecting the finest lilies with care. The way she handled the flowers was almost reverent, and Sophia couldn’t help but feel a sense of peace in her presence. There was something calming about her, something kind and genuine.

  “I’ve been living here in Blackwater Hollow for a few days now,” Amaya continued, her hands working swiftly as she arranged the flowers. “I’ve always loved flowers, and this shop feels like the perfect place to be.”

  Sophia nodded, her eyes following Amaya’s movements. “It really does feel like that. It’s… comforting, somehow.”

  “Thank you,” Amaya said with a smile. She glanced at Sophia. “What was your mother like? If you don’t mind me asking.”

  Sophia’s smile faltered just for a second, the pain of loss threatening to catch her breath. She quickly pushed it down, focusing on the question. “She was... everything to me. Strong, kind, and always there when I needed her. I just wish she could have seen me finish my studies. She was really passionate about history, too. It’s part of the reason I’m a history major.”

  Amaya’s hands slowed, and her gaze softened. “That sounds like a beautiful bond. I’m sure she’d be proud of you.”

  Sophia’s eyes misted over for a moment, but she blinked the tears away. “I hope so,” she murmured.

  Amaya finished arranging the bouquet and handed it to Sophia, who admired it for a moment. The lilies were perfect—just the way her mother had liked them. “This is beautiful, Amaya. Thank you.”

  “I’m glad you like it,” Amaya said, giving her a small smile. “I hope it brings a little comfort.”

  Sophia clutched the bouquet to her chest, feeling a bit lighter. “I’m sure it will.”

  She glanced at Amaya, who was now tidying up a few stray stems on the counter. “You know, I’ve been meaning to ask,” Sophia began, hesitating slightly. “How do you manage to stay so calm all the time? I could use a bit of that peace in my life.”

  Amaya chuckled softly, her eyes twinkling with a quiet kind of wisdom. “I think it’s the flowers,” she said, her voice almost conspiratorial. “They have a way of calming the soul. But also, I try to keep my focus on what’s right in front of me, not letting myself get too caught up in everything else.”

  Sophia smiled, feeling a bit more at ease. “I’ll have to keep that in mind.”

  As she turned to leave, she felt a warmth in her chest. She wasn’t sure what it was, but something about meeting Amaya had eased the tightness in her heart. Maybe it was the connection, or maybe it was the flowers. Either way, it felt like the first step toward finding a little peace, just like her mother would have wanted.

  “Take care, Sophia,” Amaya called as she left the shop.

  Sophia turned back, smiling. “You too, Amaya.”

  And with that, she stepped out into the crisp air, the bouquet of lilies in her arms, her heart a little lighter than when she had come in.