A Little Love in Pink
The morning sun poured softly through the curtains of a small apartment in Ipoh. Nadia stood in front of her mirror, tying her hair into a loose bun while trying to calm her racing heartbeat. Today was her older sister’s birthday and she wanted it to be perfect.
Her sister, Alya, had always been the steady one. Growing up, Alya was the person who packed her lunch, defended her from bullies and held her hand on nights when Nadia cried over exam results. Alya was her home, her comfort, her quiet strength.
Now, with adulthood rushing in and responsibilities piling up, Nadia rarely found the time to show how grateful she truly was. So, this year, she to gift her.
She grabbed her keys and headed out and driving to her favourite place, White On White florist, the only flower shop in Ipoh that always seemed to understand the meaning she wanted her bouquets to carry. A familiar florist greeted her with a warm smile. “Looking for something special today?”
“Yes,” Nadia said softly. “I want a bouquet that says thank you and also, I love you. All at once.” The florist laughed gently. “Then I know exactly what you need.”
She disappeared behind the counter and returned carrying a flower bouquet in soft pinks and creamy whites, wrapped in luxurious paper that made the colours bloom beautifully. Nadia’s eyes widened. “They’re perfect.”
“These are crafted using imported fresh flowers from our premium selection,” the florist explained. “Pink roses for gratitude, carnations for admiration, and alstroemeria for loyalty. Everything you’d want to say.” Nadia felt her throat tighten. This was it. The bouquet that held the message she had carried for years.
When she arrived at Alya’s house, she hid behind the bouquet, just like in the photo she took earlier. Alya opened the door and burst into laughter. “Nadia, you look like a walking flower garden!”
“Happy Birthday!” Nadia said, lowering the bouquet and revealing herself.
Alya accepted the flowers, her smile softening as her fingers brushed the petals. “These are beautiful… and they smell like a whole new beginning.”
Nadia hesitated before speaking. “Sis… I don’t say this enough. Thank you. For everything! For raising me, teaching me and for loving me even when I was difficult.”
Alya stepped closer, pulling her into a tight embrace. “Oh… you don’t need flowers to thank me. But these are lovely.” In that moment, Nadia felt her heart fill with warmth. The bouquet wasn’t just a gift. It was a story, a memory, a long overdue thank you wrapped in pink and tied with soft ribbons. As Alya placed the flowers in a vase, the whole room seemed to glow, blooms beautifully.
