“Close your eyes, ma chérie,” he instructed in his most romantic voice. It was a tone his wife had not heard for many years, and she instinctively looked over her shoulder in surprise. “I said close your eyes!” He exclaimed good-naturedly. “I’m sorry. I just didn’t know where that bedroom voice was coming from.” The old woman laughed, then acquiesced, turning towards the fireplace and shutting her eyes. “It hasn’t been that long!” The old man disagreed, puffing up with male pride. “Or has it, dear?” He sighed as she laughed louder but kept her eyes closed. Slowly, he walked towards her with the bouquet in his hand and placed a fragrant rosebud directly under her nose. Airily, he caressed her cheek with it. “You brought me roses,” she said happily, inhaling the sweet aroma. “That’s just the beginning. I have many gifts to bestow on you today. After all, Collette, it is our 50th wedding anniversary.”
