As the afternoon sun began to dip towards the horizon, casting long shadows across the park, a decision churned inside Alexander. He felt a pull towards Iris, a warmth he hadn't felt in a long time. Perhaps since he opened the bakery and was overwhelmed by the responsibility. He knew he was taking a risk, but the silence between them was no longer comfortable.
"I… I have an idea," he blurted out, surprising himself. "Would you… would you like to come to the bakery? I could let you try some of my creations." He cringed inwardly. It sounded clumsy, perhaps even desperate.
Iris hesitated, a shadow of doubt crossing her face. "I don't want to intrude," she said softly.
"No, no, it wouldn't be an intrusion," Alexander insisted, his voice gaining urgency. "I… I would really like it if you came. You could even see how everything works!"
He watched her, his heart beating a little faster. He knew this was the turning point. It was a risk, a leap of faith. He would have to put himself out there.
Finally, a tentative smile bloomed on her face. "Alright," she said. "I'd like that."
Relief washed over him, followed by a surge of excitement. He smiled back, his usual reserve melting away. "Great!"