“As soon as I saw that ample bill of yours I was smitten,” Paul said. “And when I thought about how cuddly your tail feathers must be, I knew it had to meet you. I admit that I was reticent to introduce myself to you, Paula, because I was worried about the heartache your rejection would cause me. But when you seemed willing to accept my affection for you, euphoria replaced reticence. Will you please accept this diamond-colored feather as a symbol of my love for you? I’d be the happiest pelican on the planet.”

“Paul, you are so sweet. Of course I will my darling,” Paula said.

“I can’t wait to watch you deliver our baby chicks you’ll carry with your bill,” Paul said, attempting to snuggle with Paula.

“Wait, what did you say?” Paula said backing away from Paul. “Deliver baby chicks? Oh my god, Paul! You think I’m a freakin’ stork, don’t you? Forget you, Paul!”

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Written for the Mindlovemisery’s Menagerie Photo Challenge. Photo credit: Sarah Whiley.

Also for the Five Word Weekly Challenge, where the words are cuddly, diamond, euphoria, heartache, and reticent.