Aurelius Derricks // 2m // fin // cb [2/5]

because I still haven't used me cbs from ratmas lmao
aurelius derricks . eighteen . d2 . male

Momma always said I was a pretty boy. Said I've got the eyes for it. Learn to wink, add a smile, and I'd never want for anything. I suppose in a way she was right—though I have to give a little more than a smile to earn my money. But I can't complain too much. At least the work pays well. Momma wouldn't have been proud; I know that. But I didn't know what else to do.

It's unfortunate she passed away before I could give her the rose bushes she always wanted. She would've scolded me for for naming the garden I opened up after her, but it seemed such a waste for me to only plant a pair of rose bushes when there was so much more I could be planting. And I know she would've loved it, even if all she did was complain.

Ophelia's Community Garden. I painted the sign myself, even though I'm sure someone else could've done much better. But it gets the point across and that's what matters. Sometimes people come, sometimes I see a few homeless people helping with with upkeep when I arrive with my rusty wheelbarrow and watering can. When no one shows up, I bring the harvest to the people who can't afford the fancy pastries in the windows.

And when I have the time and money, I plant flowers. All the fanciest kinds. And when they're in full bloom and I go door to door and sell them to anyone who doesn't slam the door in my face. To the boys in love, to the husbands desperate to be forgiven, to the grandmother with a sparkle in her eye, to the kids who want just one little taste of extravagance.

And I smile. Momma always said I was prettiest when I smiled.