The Language of Flowers

Chapter 2: Forsythia

"Hey, are you listening? Earth to Ohm!!!" Boun shouted, waving his hand in front of a dazed Ohm. When the latter didn't respond, he clapped his hand in front of Ohm, startling the guy.

"What the hell is your problem?!"

"I should be asking you that! You've been staring in space since morning." Boun replied, before returning to his food.

Ohm looked left and right. The cafeteria is jostling with students, trying to get in the line, ordering food, and looking for empty seats Oh. That's right. It's lunch already. It's been a while since he dazed off like that. Even in class earlier, he almost got in trouble for not responding when the teacher called him to the board. He was thankful to Boun for nudging him and making up an excuse to the teacher for his behavior. He just can't stop thinking of the cute guy he met at the flower shop yesterday. How can he even forget to ask his name? He just introduced himself like an idiot. He must have worn a name pin but how come I didn't even bother to check it? Ohm sighed in defeat.

"What is wrong with you?" Boun asked. He knew something was off with his best friend ever since he entered the classroom. Did something happen at Pine's birthday party?

"I think I'm in love."

Boun sighed in relief, "Oh okay. You're in love. I thought something happened at home—WHAT??!!! WHO??!! WHERE DID YOU MEET??!!" Boun exclaimed as he stood up, almost knocking off the drink in front of him. He can't believe it. Ohm Thitiwat, the resident single in their group of friends is finally in love! In Ohm's defense, he chooses not to be in a relationship with someone because of his priorities. Thank you, heavens, for making him fall in love. But who's the lucky one?

Boun took a seat after calming himself down. He turned to a confused Ohm looking at him. "So, buddy, you're in love? Can I ask who's the lucky person?" Boun asked, grinning widely. He's definitely been waiting for the moment he can pass on some love wisdom to someone, as he is the love expert (note: self-proclaimed).

Ohm didn't know why but his gut is telling him not to tell Boun about his encounter at the flower shop. Not because he doesn't trust him but he's afraid the man will make fun of him as he can be a jerk sometimes. Screw it. "I don't know his name but I met him at the flower shop where I bought Pine's gift. He works there."

"You don't know his name?! Are you stupid?!" Boun exclaimed.

"Hey, that's not nice! In my defense, I was concerned I'll be late to practice!" Ohm reasoned out. That's definitely his explanation. But it was also kind of his fault for putting his phone on silent. He could've stayed for a bit longer at the shop.

"It's your fault for not answering my calls. Well whatever, just visit him again later at shop. I'm sure he'll be there."

Ohm really wished he'd see him there.

Ohm's afternoon classes went in a blur. Though for him, the wait was excruciatingly long. He packed his bag, waved goodbye to Boun, and went to his car. His car was sailing through the road since there is not much traffic. Before he knew it, he arrived at the mall and made his way to the shop.

As he realized he was already standing in front of the shop, Ohm froze up. What was he even supposed to do here? Casually come up to the counter and ask for his name? Should he pretend to be a customer again and buy flowers? Flirt immediately? Isn't that weird and creepy? Ohm shrugged at the idea. Screw it. Plan or no plan, I'm going in.

Ohm entered the shop, the bells chiming as usual. He quickly navigated through the shop to see if the cute guy is there. Unfortunately, besides a few customers and the cashier, he was not there. He ought to ask the cashier about the cute guy but he feels like that would creepy to do so. Ohm left the shop, promising himself to just go back the next day.