You don’t have to wait until the flowers bloom all over the branches. The early spring alleys already hold just the right amount of tenderness. At the old alley entrance at 10 a.m., he was carrying a bamboo-woven basket in his hand. Seeing you arrive, he took out a small bunch of cherry blossom branches with dewdrops from inside: “I picked them this morning while passing by the park. They are blooming just perfectly.”
First, he went into the bakery located in the alley. The freshly baked cranberry bread wafted a sweet aroma, and the warm oven kept out the cold air. He picked two croissants and a piece of cherry mousse, and sat at the small table by the window. He broke half a croissant and handed it to you. The crispy crust fell onto the table, and you smiled and helped him wipe the crumbs off his mouth. The sunlight shone through the glass, casting a soft glow on the cake, and the pink cream had a soft luster.
After finishing, he walked along the cobblestone path in the alley. Several peach blossoms sprouted on the wall, their pink petals blown down by the wind. Suddenly, he took your hand and led you to the wall, pointing at the bud at the top: “Look, this flower will surely bloom tomorrow.” You lifted your foot to look, and he quietly placed his hand behind your waist and gave a gentle push, the warmth of his fingertips was warmer than the spring breeze.
Walk to the small park at the end of the alley. The grass has just sprouted new green leaves. You spread out the checked cloth you brought, and broke up the remaining bread to feed the pigeons. A group of gray and white pigeons gathered around. He deliberately passed the breadcrumbs to your hand, amusing the pigeons by making them circle around you. You smiled and pushed him. He then lay down on the cloth and said, “Look at the clouds in the sky, don’t they look like marshmallows?”
As it was getting close to noon, the wind carried the aroma of the food. He packed up the basket and said, “There’s a traditional wonton shop ahead. I’ll take you to have the shrimp-filled wontons.” You followed him, holding that bunch of cherry blossom branches in your hand. Occasionally, the petals would fall on your shoulders, like a secret gift sent by spring.
The beauty of spring is never grand and spectacular. It’s about spending time with the right person, strolling through alleys, enjoying bread, and even feeling the sweet scent in the breeze.