Stem and Steel

Silence first. Then the gradual release of stillness. I tested the articulation in my fingers, feeling the joints flex smoothly inside the gloves. Between both hands rested a single red rose. I adjusted my grip with measured pressure, gently grazing the edge of a petal. It was soft, yielding beneath the rigid grip of carbon plating. The perimeter remained dark and undisturbed. Heartbeat steady, posture set. I lowered my thumbs back to the stem, holding the bloom secure and remaining on watch.