White hair, deep gaze, three dots forming a perfect triangle on his cheeks — this is Marco, my dear friend and photo muse. I have been photographing him for years. No matter the project, he has always been up for it, following every idea and posing like a true professional in front of my camera.

A year ago, he was diagnosed with cancer. Since then, despite undergoing many treatments, he keeps his spirits high. And I keep showing up with photo projects, just as before — offering him a moment to escape, a break from the exhaustion of illness.

Like last time, when I proposed an artistic shoot with a flower. I envisioned something sensual, a monochrome series focusing on his full lips and his three dots—images exploring that tender aspect of masculinity.

I arrived at his place on a sunny February day. As soon as I saw him leaning out of the window, I forgot my artistic intentions. He emerged from the darkness of his room into the light, with his tousled hair catching the sunlight like the flower I had brought him.

Without a word, I simply passed him the flower and let things happen naturally. No words. No instructions. I just let the moment unfold. Suddenly, I thought about the sweater he wore the last time, where it was written: "Where flowers grow, so does hope."

Behind the camera, I was deeply moved by the symbolism of it all — watching him hold and inhale the flower, the flower of Hope. It was profoundly beautiful and real.

Of course, we also captured some of the artistic shots I had envisioned, and I was amazed at how Marco's eyes and attitude suddenly transformed, revealing a sensual and confident presence.

Looking at the results, I’m still impressed by the raw contrast between reality and imagination. Both are beautiful, and each carries a meaningful story in its own way — a story about Hope.