The World, The Fish and the Devil
an excerpt

“I sent her flowers?” Phil asked. He was surprised, but not at all offended.

“Yes, you did indeed,” Sebastian answered.

“Huh. That was a great idea. What did 'I' write on the card?”

“'From you know who, and you know why.'”

“That's cheesy as hell. I like it. So, Mr. Expert, what do I do next?”

“That's up to you. But if it were me, I'd have a bottle of bubbly on hand in case she wants to be seduced. I'll handle that part, too, if you're not up to it.”

“I bet you would. How much do I owe you?”

“Eighty bucks.”

“Good grief,” said Phil, digging in his wallet. He got it out and gave it to him.

“Roses aren't cheap, especially yellow ones with red tips on the petals.”

“Why did they have to be those colors?”

“Why do I have to tell you everything? I looked it up online. That type of rose means friendship and falling in love.”

“Oh, man.”

“Well, you are, aren't you?”

“None of your damned business.”

Sebastian snorted. “You are sounding more like me every day, crabass."