Oliver sighed. “Even twelve red roses diminish the message I’m giving the recipient with this one,” informed Oliver. He lifted the roses toward the clerk. “On the other hand, the bouquet of eleven salmon and orange ones will do just fine.”
Unperturbed, the clerk continued as if she had not detected Oliver’s temperament. “Who’s the lucky lady?”
Oliver pointed with the red rose bouquet. “Someone who has had a bad day, and her day is about to get even worse.” He smiled mischievously. He lifted the bouquet of eleven salmon and orange roses. “This one is for a special person.”
“Two lucky ladies?” said the young clerk. She winked at Oliver.
“If one of them only knew the truth!” teased Oliver.
“Well,” said the clerk. “I think these red flowers will definitely cheer her up,” said the
