Chapter 236: Magnolias are Really Beautiful
Golden petals and fresh green calyxes carried the crisp chill of spring through the air. Several varieties of yellow flowers painted the park in brilliant hues.
By late March, the winter jasmine in Magnolia's South Entrance Park had bloomed into a golden sea. Not far from there, white magnolias, true to the city's name, stood in full bloom, their petals wide and radiant. Purple magnolias were just beginning to bud, releasing a soft fragrance that gently stirred with the breeze.
Visitors from all around flocked to enjoy the seasonal beauty. Elderly couples strolled slowly, arm in arm. Middle-aged couples walked hand in hand, and children darted through the blossoms, laughing and chasing each other.
There were even young couples lounging on benches and beneath the magnolia trees, whispering affectionately to each other.
In comparison, Rhodes and Mira, who were simply walking through the blooms before laying out a picnic blanket, unpacking lunch, fruit, and snacks, and settling in for a quiet chat, blended right in.
Even so, when Rhodes finished arranging the food and was ready to sit down, he hesitated for a few seconds. Where should he sit?
Sitting across from Mira meant he could better appreciate her rare, dressy outfit. Sitting beside her meant feeling a little closer, sharing that warmth.
In that moment, he wished he had a clone spell. Or maybe a really big mirror.
Ultimately, he chose to sit across from her. Worst case, he could always scoot over later without making a sound.
Mira raised an eyebrow at his thoughtful expression. "You're definitely thinking something suspicious."
"Who, me? Never." Rhodes plopped down cross-legged, picked up a strawberry with a toothpick, and held it toward her lips. "Go on. Punish me, by letting me feed you."