The Language of Flowers

Chapter 5: Forget-Me-Not

Ohm is in a good mood. He opens the letter Fluke gave him and stares at it once more before bringing it close to him. Things are also going well. First, they were able to pass immigration without a hitch. Second, boarding was peaceful and had no delays. Third, no crying babies inside the place and he had wide leg space. Things are going well, or so he thought. The moment they stepped down from the plane, the cold air welcomed him. As someone who grew up in a tropical climate, winter isn't really a good friend. Upon getting their luggage, an exchange student from his university, who also travelled in the same group, lost her passport and couldn't pass through immigration. No one was allowed to leave for their hotel unless the passport was found. Luckily, she just dropped it in the plane and one of the flight attendants saw it..

Ohm drags his heavy luggage to his room. He definitely needs to take a nap and get rid of all his bad mood ever since they arrived in Korea. The appointed teacher who travelled with them gave them all an earful, emphasizing the importance of being independent and careful, especially in a foreign country.

Upon arrival, he flopped on his bed, embracing the softness and warmth of it. Remembering something he was supposed to do the moment he arrived, he quickly fished for his phone and dialed the number of his best friend.

"Hey Ohm, what's up? Are you in Korea already? What time is it there? Are you in your dorm? What does it look like? Can you take a picture?" a cheery Boun bombarded him from the other line. It's been only 7 hours since he last saw him, but he does miss his loudness. Before Boun can continue his rampage of questions, Ohm cleared his throat. He knew Boun heard him clear his throat since the other line went silent.

"Oops, sorry. So what's up?" Boun asked.

"Can you do me a favor? This is for Fluke." Ohm said. He's put this off for a while. It's time to do it.

Boun cheerily accepted, "What is this about?"

"Help me confess."

Fluke arrived at his room a little earlier than usual. Sammy and Prem, who was surprisingly already in the room, welcomed him with good mornings and other pleasantries.

"Looks like the flower giving phase is not yet over." Sammy squealed, pointing at the door. Fluke and Prem both looked at the door, seeing a familiar face once more. It's the delivery guy who always delivers the flowers from Ohm.

Prem patted Fluke's back, signaling the other to go get the flowers. "Distance can't stop two lovers." Wow, big words from Prem. First-hand experience? Let's not go into that.

Fluke returned to his seat, flowers in hand and a big smile on his face. He took the card inside the bouquet. Always thinking of you.

"What does this purple flower mean? " Sammy said, interrupting Fluke's train of thought. Fluke paused for a while, thinking if he should say it. Do I even have a choice? Sammy will keep pestering me if I don't tell.

"It's Gloxinia. It means I have loved you at first sight." Fluke said shyly. Who on Earth could say that with a straight face? Thank you, P'Ohm. I thought I was the only one.

Beside Fluke, Sammy started screaming and hitting poor Prem. Fluke shoots a quick message to Ohm before their class starts.

To P'Ohm

I got the flowers. Thank you. (ᗒᗨᗕ)

As soon as Fluke stashes his phone away, his phone vibrates. Peeking at his phone, Fluke smiled and returned his focus on his professor.