Aborted Proposal

Ferd and Iris realize they still don't know much about each other. 300 words

Aborted Proposal

Iris watched aghast as Ferd got down on one knee. He held out a long-stemmed orange flower. She grimaced.

“Before you say anything the answer has to be no.”

“But I thought you loved me?”

She helped him up.

“I do.”

“Then why are you saying no, before I’ve asked?”

“It’s going to seem petty, but there is only one reason I would say no,”

“What is it? I practiced for hours! I wore my best suit!”

“You do look nice, Ferd, it isn’t that.”

“What did I do? Tell me, I’ll fix it!”

“How long have we known each other?” Iris asked him.

“Three years. I think it’s love, and I want to marry you.”

“In all that time, have you ever seen me wearing orange or buying things colored orange?”

Ferd stopped.

“I absolutely abhor orange. I don’t even eat orange food!”

“I’m sorry Iris. I would never hurt you on purpose. I thought it was a pretty flower, so I bought it for you as a gift.”

“I understand, but please destroy it since it’s color truly offends me.”

Without another word, Ferd crushed the tiger lily under his shiny dress shoe.

“Let’s go to lunch, my treat,” Iris said taking his arm.

As they walked, they talked about getting married. Ferd sighed.

“What’s the matter, love?” Iris asked gently.

“I hoped I’d never have to mention this, but I guess I better let you know. I’m color-blind to red, green and orange. So, I guess you won’t be getting many flowers from me.”

“Oh, I wish I’d known! I’d never have been so hard on you if I had.” Iris squeezed his hand.

“We’ll have a long talk, won’t we?” Ferd asked.

“We can do it over lunch,” Iris assured him with a smile.