I am so happy to see this nominated! It's a piece that really blossoms (couldn't think of any other word haha). I feel the tenderness that new love holds, and the care and patience and gentleness it often requires... as you both may share the fear of being open, butt learn to grow from and with each other. So many delicate lines in this that carried the theme and metaphor of flowers/gardening perfectly and our vulnerabilities. Letting ourselves be loved is huge, and beautiful. Especially trusting someone else, even if slowly and cautiously at first. This piece just has gorgeous imagery and a depth that leaves me feeling so satisfied after reading. It's amazing what we may think is barren or desolate in us, when we isolate for so long, can be tended to... and we just have to welcome and embrace it. Not let the doubt rule us or lead us to sabotage ourselves or, as you beautifully write, let the dark kill any further chances.

Adding to my favorites!

Congrats on the win!!

Very beautiful. Congrats on the win!