The petals of deceit

Kelly

The event had gone off without a setback—my speech delivered with the exactness of years of practice, the crowd hanging on every word. I smiled through the applause, the excitement buzzing in the air. But despite the excitement of a successful evening, a strange unease gnawed at me.

When I entered my private office, I was greeted by the sight of a bouquet resting on the desk, nestled between my campaign notes. Fresh lilies, soft white petals, their fragrance delicate and sweet. They were beautiful, but it was the note that made my heart stutter.

For a brief moment, I felt a wave of relief....