Note: Inspiration – Meaning of flowers.

30) Roses

An orange rose lies beside her pillow when she wakes up, the colour vivid and vigorous against the pure white linen. It's a symbol of enthusiasm, a sign of desire and Rima knows he left it there while she was asleep.

A yellow rose is tucked between the pages of her notebook and Rima feels her mood lift. She finds another one later on top of her bag and the corners of her mouth twitch. There's another hidden in her pocket and Rima can't help but smile. She knows it's a reminder of how much he cares for her, a token of his affection.

A lavender rose is placed on top of the present he hands her. It's her birthday and Rima feels her heart skip. There's a card attached and he reminds her of when they first met. The flower is a memory of love at first sight.

A light pink rose is in his hand at the end of the social ball. It's delicate, but the thorns press into her fingers when he kisses her on the cheek. It's his way of saying goodnight, of making up for the lack of grace and elegance he displayed because he accidentally stepped on her foot.

A red rose is delivered to her every Valentine's Day. Although she knows to expect it, it still delights her. It surprises her how much of a romantic he is.

A white rose waits for her after every fight, a method of apology. Rima hopes he doesn't think he can get away with it so easily every time, but it softens her temperament when she remembers it represents humility, purity and reverence.

A blue rose is rarely given and only in the most intimate of moments. Rima blushes and Shiki smiles for they know it's immortal, eternal love.

30b) Language

"One, two, three, four…"

Rima walks in and finds Ruka counting the bouquet of roses Shiki has sent her.

"Why are you counting the flowers?" Rima asks hesitantly. Ruka turns and there's a triumphant gleam in her eyes.

"Do you know what eleven roses mean?"

"What?"

"It means in one lifetime, you are the only one I love." Ruka sighs wistfully. Rima looks at the bouquet and wonders. Shiki has always given her eleven roses.

"I wonder if he knows."