Something about this spring in particular feels like a first date with a stranger. She brings me flowers, a fragrant lilac bouquet wrapped in a promise. She is gentle and warm and smells of freshly washed linen hung to dry in the sun. I think I might like her, this May, but she is still a stranger and I am still apprehensive. Wind’s whisper kisses the hair around my face and May says something about the birth of Venus. I try to hide the blush clawing its way up my throat.
I have been begging for a thawing since winter and now that it’s finally here I don’t know what to do with what I wished for. I know I should savor the tenderness of spring, however short-lived, before I am drowning in the heat of summer. Before July swallows me whole.
It can just be a little fling, nothing serious. But May reminds me I have never been good at casual. Wanting has always been my downfall. Perhaps this time I won’t shy away, won’t pretend to play it cool. I want the permanence of ink and I am not afraid to lay myself bare for it. Everything feels brand new in spring. The possibilities are endless but this time I want promises.
Maybe this isn’t the season for permanence. But if the flowers have taken root, why can’t I?
Thanks for reading this edition of To Be Tender. If anything from this edition resonated with you, let me know in the comments! I’d love to hear your thoughts.
As always, you can find me rambling about books over on Instagram @catherineslibrary
See you next time, sweet friends. Stay tender <3
Omg 🥹 a little fling, nothing serious! This is such beautiful writing!
Love this one 💞