There was a big red flower growing by the road.

Its ruffled petals made it look like a skirt that had been left outside overnight and flecked with early morning dew. Its light green stem broke with a loud crack when it was picked.

"Here." Johan said, holding the flower out like it was a sword.

Judai blinked. "What?"

Johan could feel a blush spreading over his face. He suddenly felt awkward and nervous. "I want you to have it."

"Oh." His dark eyes widened, perfectly reflecting the image of the flower. After a few more uncomfortable seconds he gently extended his hand and accepted it.

They kept on walking, this time looking away from each other. They each had their own serious thoughts flowing through their minds.

Oh great. This is not working out like it does on TV. Now he probably thinks I'm really weird! I bet he's looking for an excuse to get away from me right now. I can't believe I'm so stupid! Johan thought anxiously.

At the same time Judai was thinking, What's going on? Isn't a flower something you give to someone you love? Then again, don't flowers normally symbolize something? Is that what this is? He's trying to tell me something? But I don't even know what kind of flower this is so I don't get it. My head hurts.

"Look, Judai, I'm sorry if I freaked you out or anything." Johan started, breaking the silence. "I didn't mean to-"

"No." Judai grabbed his arm and stopped him. His bangs fell over his eyes and he clutched the flower against himself so suddenly and strongly that one of the petals flew off.

"No?"

"What I mean to say is 'Thank you'." Judai looked up and he was smiling. "Thank you for the flower. It's beautiful."

A small smile started on Johan's face and then it spread into a grin. They both started laughing and didn't stop until he threw his arms around Judai and pulled him close. Their noses weren't even an inch apart and the forgotten flower was crushed between their chests.

"You're welcome." he said quietly before they kissed.