Chapter 102: A DOUBLE MEANING

I wasn't expecting to see Raphael the following day when he appeared at the door of my shop holding a bouquet. The one he sent the day before was at home together with the abstract painting. He was smiling widely when he saw me looking at him as he slowly moved towards the counter where I was. 

"Flowers for you, Maria," He gently extended the bouquet to me, which I accepted with a sincere smile. Although I told myself the night before that I wouldn't be accepting anything from him anymore, it would be a bit rude if I declined this bouquet he personally handed over to me now. 

"Thank you, Raphael, but you shouldn't have to. I mean, yes I appreciate your kind gesture, but isn't this too much?"