* Sub Umbra Floreo - Chapter I*

Spring. Nothing is as fresh and rejuvenating as the vague scent of grass, sea salt, and sand in the cool spring breeze.

She pulled on her leather jacket and hopped on the Harley’s passenger seat. The ride is always scary. But the speed of the two-wheeled motor coupled with the magnificent sunset made for a good adrenaline rush. Nothing but bushes on the right, asphalt below, and the sea on the left.

The bike’s mirrors make for a schizophrenic reflection. If ever there were two people inside one body it was during this fleeting moment of fear-induced pleasure.  And she could not decide which one she’d rather be because none could survive without the other.

She so longed for the sea. The only true solace in this incomprehensible chaos of life.

And spring always brought memories. Memories, familiar smells, déjà-vus of ephemeral moments.

They finally stopped next to a photo spot, on a hill giving way to a downfall into the blue. Captivating sparkles and dizzying heights.

A single rose grew out from the stoned wall. A wet, spring rose. She picked it and they rode away.  

"under the shade, I flourish"