This was the 334th time I'd passed this flower shop.
I'd long since lost track of how many days I'd been in love with the shopkeeper.
He was like a towering mountain shrouded in mist. He remembered all my habits, and always said, "I can't tell you yet," before I could even ask.
On the coldest day, I received a bitter kiss.
He gently covered my eyes and said, "I'm sorry."
I didn't know what he was apologizing for until my blood stained the snow in his painting.
As my consciousness faded, I finally understood the story's wisdom.
Mei Xuanji x Qi Yuan
First published in a short story collection, later revised and published separately.
Open ending, tragic romance
Theme: Even if parting is the beginning of reunion, I would still choose to fall in love with you.
