A rose by any other name - 2. Behind door number two

“Sorry about last night, babe. See you at home tonight.”

Ethan stared at his phone and sighed. Last night had been one of their worst yet. So many harsh and hurtful words spoken, their aim to hit the sore spots they both knew so well after three years together. Looking back, Ethan could hardly remember what set them off. Probably the usual, his out of control jealousy that had flared in the last six months. He knew it wasn’t fair to Darren, but he hadn’t been able to shake the feeling something was going on. Darren denied it over and over again, as usual. Then they went over the deep end and things turned ugly. Mostly Darren, with his vicious jabs that knew exactly how to find Ethan’s insecurities. Being the older, out of shape, nerdy IT-guy bagging the personal trainer ten years his junior did nothing to reduce his fears. Ethan had finally fled to the bedroom, while Darren slept on the couch. His boyfriend had been gone in the morning for an early appointment with a client, leaving Ethan to have breakfast in the depressing company of his guilt.

Passing by a flower shop, Ethan stopped. Maybe buying some flowers would ease his conscience? Smooth things over and give them time to start fresh? Since the gnawing feeling wouldn’t give him any rest, he found it hard to be the one to reach out and ask forgiveness. Although, technically Darren had already said he was sorry. Only via text, but still.

He reached out for the handle, hesitating for a moment but then pushing the door open. Stepping inside, the cloying scent of flowers almost made him turn around, but he took a steadying breath. The warm, moist air filling his lungs did little to make him feel better. Despite the slight nauseated feeling, Ethan decided he had to show Darren just how sorry he was and how much he regretted his outburst. Who didn’t like flowers? Perhaps a weird gift for a 24-year-old guy, but as a gesture, they would do the trick. Then he would follow up with booking tickets for that trip to Japan. Darren had dreamt of going to Tokyo for ages. Sure, his income had been a little scarce lately, since many of his clients had opted to cut costs and get rid of consultants. Somehow, he would find a way to scrape together the funds needed. It would be the just the thing to convince Darren they were meant to be together. If needed, he could always ask his partner for a loan. It would be all right.

A blonde woman, no more than early 20s, sidled up to him. She wore a tell-tale shirt, clearly showing she worked there.

“Can I help you?” Her professional smile set Ethan somewhat at ease. She would know what to buy. After all, she did this for a living. Still he felt sheepish.

“I’m looking for some flowers for my boyfriend.”

“Great! What did you have in mind?”

“Ehum…” Stumped, Ethan looked around. So many flowers. What would Darren like? Would he even appreciate getting flowers? “I’m not sure.”

“Do you want me to suggest something?” The woman tilted her head to one side. “If you tell me a little about your boyfriend, I can put together a fitting bouquet.”

Ethan paused for a moment and then gave her a few specifics. He opted for age, occupation and, for some unclear reason, hair color. She nodded and headed over to a set of large glass doors. Through them, he could see a wide range of various flowers. The colors were vibrant, and he was pleased when the woman selected a bunch of different colored roses.

“I was thinking roses are a classic but putting all these colors together adds a bit of youthfulness and fun. Suitable for a younger man.” She held up the finished bouquet to him. ”What do you think?”

Unsure, Ethan leaned in and smelled the roses. They didn’t have a very distinct scent, more subtly and indistinct green.

“These roses don’t really smell much.” The woman lowered the flowers. “If you don’t like them, I can put together something else.”

“No, they are fine.” With an apologetic smile, Ethan shrugged. “I’m just not used to buying flowers.”

“Oh, OK. Shall I wrap them up for you?”

“Please do.”

While the woman busied herself behind the counter, Ethan stood restlessly tapping his fingers. His eyes wandered over the bits and pieces of paper lying in front of him. A familiar name made him frown. Confused, he picked up the post it. Scribbled across in hurried letters were Darren’s full name and the address to his gym. The note also stated gladiolus, which Ethan identified as a flower but couldn’t quite picture in his mind.

“Today was amazing. I can’t wait to see you again. Leo”

The message was clearly meant for Darren. Leo? Wasn’t that his new client at the gym? The doctor who had bought an extensive set of training sessions, several times a week for months on end? Darren had spoken about him quite a lot, telling Ethan how impressed he was by the doctor’s change of lifestyle. The jotted words left Ethan cold, only to be followed by jealous anger. So, he had been right all along? After slamming the note down on the counter, he headed towards the door.

“Sir! Your flowers!” The woman rushed after him, bouquet in hand.

“I’m sorry. I changed my mind.”

Ethan ignored her disapproving huff and rushed outside. They would definitely continue their fight tonight. And this time, he was calling it quits.