“You know I love you, Manny. I always have.”

“You choose weird ways of showing it, then.”

“Well, I just struggle sometimes. You know my family. We didn’t always show affection. I’ve had to learn.”

“It’s been seven years. You should know by now what I like, what I don’t like. I know these things about you.”

“And I know them about you, too, Manny. I just forget sometimes.”

“Forget my favorite color? Forget that I hate surprises? Forget that I don’t want these flowers, because I’m allergic?”

“I’m sorry. When you say it like that, I see what you mean. Only, it’s not what it seems. I do forget things. But this time, I meant it all.”

“What are you talking about?”

“I’m here, with you, to get away. I needed to get away for a bit. I thought the flowers would help soften the blow.”

“The blow of what? The surprise?”

“The hit and run. It happened on my way to work. They’ll be looking for me at home now. I knew you’d keep me safe. Now, let’s enjoy each other’s company before they come.”