The Flower Enigma

JJ grabbed his laptop and clasped Jo’s hand, guiding her toward the stairs. He led her up the red rose carpeted stairs looking for their door. He planned a relaxing afternoon with the woman of his dreams.

Jo paused and commented on the various framed flower pictures that decorated the ivory walls. “JJ, wait. Look at this blue field of flowers. The title says, Texas Bluebonnets. I’ve never seen a prettier sea of blossoms.”

Encircling her with his arms from behind, JJ added a hug as he inhaled her fresh scent. “I don’t know, honey. The color reminds me of the first dress you wore for Aunt Lara in the dress shop she was visiting to promote her creations. One look and you convinced her to hire, then later adopt you.” He recalled how captivating she was in the simple outfit. “The skirt of that dress floated around you like wings.”

“You’re so sweet. I wore that dress often. Let’s go to our room so I can properly thank you for remembering. It’s the last door.”

He grinned at this sweet young woman he was delighted to have to himself for a few days. He opened the door into an inviting hideaway and pulled her inside.

“JJ, this is lovely and peaceful with the pale green walls. The lovely bedding of green leaves on a white background goes well with the lace curtains.”

JJ connected his cell Bluetooth to the speaker on the nightstand allowing their favorite smooth jazz to float on the air in the background. “Soothing I think is a great word, and not just girly.” He opened the attached door. “Honey, look at this. An original footed tub so you can have that bubble bath. I am so happy to scrub your back anytime you wish.”

She squealed with delight, adding a kiss on his cheek. “Thank you for finding this place. It’s simple but very enchanting.”

They opened their bags to unpack. Season travelers, they quickly picked drawers and hangers for their belongings. JJ finished first. He stood staring out the window, appreciating the blue skies and flower-shaped shadows on the ground that came to life as sunshine fell upon the pedals. Distracted, he randomly combed his hair with his fingers. “I can hear them through the floor setting up for the podcast, based on the orders by that Mary Lou character. Her voice would be useful to warn ships off the rocky coast of Nova Scotia when the fog hits. I’m only hearing part of the discussion, but it sounds like things are getting ready to go.”

“Did you want to go watch or listen?”

“Not necessarily. There is something that doesn’t make sense. The links to those questionable sites I mentioned to the group didn’t show any clicks or downloads. I tend to question oddness when it makes no sense. They all struck as nice ladies. I hope no one is setting them up.”

Jo stepped up and wound her fingers into his hand. He liked the feel of her warmth. He kissed her sweet lips but was still distracted.

“JJ, I bet you want to go check it out. Let’s go listen. I’ve never watched a live podcast as a spectator. It’ll be a learning experience.”