I don't know about the flowers. If she is losing her job she must feel low and her self-esteem must have taken a hit since another person was picked. The flowers may have reminded her of a funeral in a way so she may have taken your motive wrong.
It is so hard to communicate at times. Plus flowers are pursuit and we all know about that!
Talking 1.5 hours is a plus - my former W does not want to do that - not b/c of hate but b/c she is still so uneasy around me. Your xW seems to be comfortable enough to share a major life concern with you even though she needed a "non-question" to get the ball rolling. I assumed you you listened without comment? Good.
Maybe a follow up to thank her for sharing? Maybe affirm that you have full confidence that she will get any job she sets her sights on b/c of her ability? An offer to proof her resume? Just a short note to her - no pursuit - as you would any friend.
Just ideas. But she called you and that is good. Your expectations? None. She is testing you. Support her best you can.
Congrats on the house. That is moving forward. She will notice (even though that was not your motive).
