Chapter 22

Mary Redferne

I sat at home, watching the clock tick towards seven, the time Joseph had promised to be home. The day had been dull, and I couldn't shake the feeling that I needed to find a job again.

I am not meant to be a stay at home housewife.

When the doorbell rang precisely at seven, I raised my eyebrows in surprise, impressed by Joseph's punctuality. Opening the door, I was greeted by his signature shy smile and a bouquet of pink flowers in his hands.

"I was going to bring red roses, but I remembered this is your favourite colour, so I bought these. I hope you like them," he said softly as he handed me the flowers. I stood there, dumbfounded by his gesture.

I didn’t know that he knew what my favourite colour was.

"You brought flowers for me?" I asked, confusion evident in my voice. "Why?"

"Because... I thought you'd like them," he replied nervously, his sincerity touching my heart. I felt tears welling up in my eyes at the simple act of kindness.

I don’t think I’ve ever receiv