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Ithe distinctive scent of roses as I grew closer Once I reached the building, I was greeted with an array of color The entire greenhouse was packed full of flowers, most of which appeared to be roses

“Cliff?” I called as I stepped into the building

He didn’t answer right away but considering he didn’t have the best hearing and there were fans going overhead, I didn’t hesitate to search hi

“This one is a beauty, isn’t it, my sweet?” I heard Cliff ask His back was toto but I’d obviously walked in on an intimate conversation, so I didnoticed

Mission not accomplished

As I took a step back, round As I lostseveral pots of roses on it The rack shook under ht and one of the pots tipped off the end in the process I looked at the poor displaced flower in horror and then jerkedme with surprise

He was also very much alone

When his eyes fell to the rose I’d knocked over I said, “Oh God, Cliff, I’m sorry” I bent down to pick up the plant

“Be careful of the thorns, boy,” Cliff called too late I closed ers around the base of the flower to hold it in the pot as I lifted it and was rewarded with several of the thorns puncturing my skin

“Shit,” I said but Ion to the pot

Cliff appeared at my side and took the pot from me Despite his frail state, he handled the floith surprising strength

“I’m sorry,” I repeated “I didn’t e your plant I only caain “Sorry”

Cliff waved his hand at irl will easily outlive me,” he said as he wrapped his arm around the pot “Come with me I’ll show you how to fix her up”