That afternoon, Nora, my lawyer, and I held a video conference. Hale Blooms was closed only temporarily. The lease remained in place, and nothing had been moved. I didn't want anyone making permanent decisions for me while I was still reeling.
My mother placed an inquiry form on the table. A teacher in the next town was getting married in three weeks. She would have only 20 guests and needed a bouquet and a few table arrangements.
My hand went still at the word "wedding."
"We can turn it down," Nora said.
I read the bride's request. She wanted simple white chamomile. Her budget was small, but she had filled in every detail with care.
"I'll take it," I said. "That wedding has taken enough from me. It isn't taking my work either."
Nora played the recording from the rose wall. On-screen
