Chapter 15 — When I Learn How to Bloom Again

A week later, my house… was finally completed. When I walked through the door, I almost cried. This is... my dream house. Airy, bright, warm... and free. Sunlight poured through the large glass window, covering the living room. Each piece of furniture I chose... is in its right place. In the dining room, an antique bronze lamp radiates a warm, gentle light. The open kitchen is so clean that there is not even a speck of dust. In the bedroom, the soft wool carpet underfoot... feels like stepping on clouds. The bathtub facing the lake has been prepared, the water is warm, rose petals float gently on the water. Everything is so beautiful... like an unreal dream. I walked barefoot up the stairs. Pushing open the door I was most looking forward to. Greenhouse on the terrace. A gentle floral scent came, accompanied by warm sunlight. Half of the space is my small garden, green trees and flowers blooming in the light, full of life. The other half… is the drawing room. The large drawing table is placed right under the glass roof. Next to it is a brand new easel. A wall of books... filled with design books I just bought. I walked to the drawing table. Gently touch the table with your hand. This place… will be the starting point of the dream. My life... from now on, will be drawn by myself. In the evening, I prepared myself a small "celebration". I changed into a beautiful silk dress. Open the bottle of champagne that Trieu Tinh gave you. Cook an exquisite meal… all the dishes I like. There are no more spicy dishes that Chu Van Bac once loved. All that remains is... my own taste. I sat alone at a long table. Ahead is a sparkling starry sky. Surrounded by warm light. I raise my glass.

“Dear… the past.”

“Greetings… a new life.”

I drank it all. Just then… the doorbell rang. I know… it's you. I stood up... went to open the door. Luc Triet Vien stood outside the door, holding a large potted plant in his hand. In the pot is a clump of bird of paradise blooming brilliantly. The leaves stretch out long and gracefully. The flowers... are like bird wings about to take off.

“Congratulations.” He looked at me, smiled.

“Housewarming gift.”

“The meaning of the bird of heaven… is freedom and happiness.”

The corners of my eyes immediately became hot. This man… why does he understand me so well?

"Thank you." My voice choked.

“Thank you also... for helping me realize this dream.”

“This is the work… of both of us.” he said.

He entered the house and placed the bird of paradise pot in the most prominent position in the living room. It blends into the space perfectly. As if… it originally belonged here. He looked around the house—the space we created together. In his eyes was satisfaction... and appreciation.

“It's beautiful.” He said softly.

Then he turned back to look at me. The eyes... are even gentler than the starlight out there.

“Tan Tranh.”

“Do you want… to have my place in this work… from now on?”

My heart… felt like it was filled with summer fireworks for a moment. I looked at him. Seeing clearly in his eyes... was sincere, hot, unconcealed feelings. I nodded vigorously. Tears... finally fell. But this time... it was tears of happiness. He walked over and gently hugged me. His arms are warm and steady. Bringing with it the smell of sunshine... and young grass. I leaned against his chest, listening to his steady heartbeat. Inside... strangely peaceful. I raised my head and looked through the glass roof of the flower room. Starry sky… twinkle. My life ahead… has begun. And this time… my world is filled with light, flowers blooming… and someone— Someone who loves me, understands me, respects me… in the most beautiful way.