I watched the rose grow

it started with a swelling bud

tips of deep red petals emerged

a tantalizing hint of its future beauty

it grew slowly

with stealth and precision

I checked its progress daily

eventually it was proudly in full bloom

a perfect specimen

passing bees paused in amazement

birds perched in awe

clouds parted allowing the sun to take a peek

I cut the rose

placed it in a vase

presented it to my lover

deliciously sweet scent

delicate soft silky petals

so cute to look at

beautiful in every way

just like her

the red rose