These are the flowers I'd give you — red for my love, purple for how much I long for you, and black for the dark days we're surviving apart, together.

Today, Nermine, you turn a year older, and every part of me wishes I could be standing next to you, stealing your cake and kissing your forehead. Since I can't — this little corner of the internet is my hug, sent across the distance.

You're so beautiful it hurts sometimes — and when I'm with you, I feel calm enough to see my whole life stretched out beside you. That's the comfort you give me without even trying.

I'm holding your gift. I'm keeping the flowers in my heart. And I'm keeping you in my mind every single minute.

This town feels too big when you're in it but not in my arms. But I promise you — one day soon we'll close this gap, and the next birthday? I'll be right there next to you, bringing the flowers for real. 🌹🥀🖤

Happy birthday, Nerminty. 🤍
— Omar, counting the days till we meet again.