Chapter 2

As the first golden rays of the third day of Spring rise over the small village of Forget-Me-Not Valley, Vale awakens, momentarily forgetting the life he left behind in the city. He blinks, his eyes adjusting to the soft light filtering through the windows, and a sense of tranquility settles over him. This is his new reality now—a rancher in this idyllic, peaceful village.

Stretching his limbs, Vale lets out a contented sigh and makes his way to the old-fashioned bathroom. The weathered brass faucet emits a steady stream of crystal-clear water, cascading gently into the worn porcelain basin. As he splashes his face, the cool droplets wash away the remnants of sleep, leaving him feeling connected to the rhythm of the valley itself.

Refreshed and invigorated, Vale strolls over to the chest of drawers, selecting a pair of sturdy cargo pants and a white shirt that has served his father well over the years. Their well-worn fabric holds memories of countless adventures, and they bear the marks of resilience. Slipping on a pair of trusty gloves, he feels ready to face the challenges of his first day on the ranch.

With a renewed sense of purpose, Vale makes his way to the cozy corner of the living room, his eyes falling upon his father's old journals neatly arranged on the bookshelf. Carefully choosing one, he runs his fingers over the worn, yellowed pages, each line a testament to his father's wisdom on nurturing crops and tending to animals.

Settling into a well-worn armchair next to the old record player, Vale gently lowers the needle onto an aged vinyl record titled "Breeze." The soothing melodies fill the air, mingling with the faint scent of leather-bound journals. Flipping through the pages, Vale absorbs the knowledge his father meticulously penned, grateful for the concise and easily understood entries. He reminds himself to start small, taking one step at a time to build a foundation for his ranch.

As the morning progresses, Vale's mind becomes a vivid canvas painted with images of fertile fields, each row of crops pulsating with vibrant life. He can almost imagine the gentle chorus of livestock grazing contentedly nearby. Closing the journal with a sense of determination, Vale decides it is time to fuel his body for the tasks ahead.

He prepares a simple breakfast from some food that he was able to bring back from his old home in the city. The kitchen in the small house is old-fashioned, yet works well enough to make some simple meals. With a satisfied stomach and renewed vigor, he knows the time has come to embark on this new chapter of his life—turning this sleepy ranch into a thriving utopia for crops and animals.

Putting on his sturdy brown work boots, Vale emerges from the house, no longer a city dweller but a new rancher. Takakura has already taken the cow out to the pasture, and Vale approaches the fence with a mix of excitement and caution. He knows that building trust with the large black and white animal is crucial for obtaining fine quality milk.

Leaping over the fence, Vale approaches the cow slowly and extends his hand for a gentle pet. The cow, not yet accustomed to him, regards him with curiosity. With careful strokes and soothing words, Vale begins to earn her trust. Gradually, the cow's demeanor changes, and she lets out a contented moo, a sign that she is growing comfortable with his presence.

Moving towards the tool shed, Vale retrieves a brush and a milker, following the instructions left behind by his father. With a calm and deliberate manner, he begins brushing the cow's coat, paying close attention to her reactions and the tone of her moo. Each stroke brings him closer to understanding her needs and ensuring her well-being.

Once satisfied that the cow is content and ready, Vale positions himself beside her, sitting on a small stool. With inexperienced hands, he begins the process of milking, drawing several bottles of fresh milk. It's a learning experience for both Vale and the cow, and he feels fortunate that she remains calm and cooperative during this first attempt.

As the milk flows steadily into the bottles, Vale's confidence grows. He marvels at the connection he is forging with this gentle creature, grateful for the opportunity to learn and care for her. The bond between rancher and cow strengthens with each passing moment, a testament to the trust they are building together.

With the bottles filled and a sense of accomplishment filling his heart, Vale gently releases the cow from the milker and pats her affectionately. She responds with a contented graze, as if acknowledging their growing friendship. Vale takes a moment to appreciate this small victory, realizing that he is on the path to becoming a skilled rancher—one who understands the importance of patience, trust, and care.

Filled with gratitude and determination, Vale carries the bottles of milk back to the storage shed, ready to be shipped and earn a small profit. He knows there is much more to learn and accomplish, but this first experience with the cow has instilled in him a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose.

The next task on Vale's agenda is to get the crops started. As he walks towards the side of the farm, he sees three distinct crop fields, each with its own soil quality. Inside the tool shed, he finds the necessary tools for tilling the soil and watering the crops. On the shelves, neatly arranged, are bags of tomato seeds—perfect for his first farming endeavor on the land he now calls his own.

Recalling the wisdom passed down by his father, Vale selects the appropriate tool and begins tilling the soil in one of the fields. With each motion, he feels the resistance of the earth giving way, preparing a fertile bed for the seeds. The scent of fresh soil fills the air, invigorating him with a sense of possibility and growth.

With the soil ready, Vale carefully opens one of the bags containing tomato seeds. He takes a moment to admire the small, teardrop-shaped kernels, marveling at the potential contained within each one. Following his father's instructions, he plants the seeds at a suitable depth, ensuring they have ample space to grow and flourish.

Afterward, Vale heads to the well, drawing water in a watering can with a steady hand. The cool liquid shimmers in the sunlight as he carries it back to the newly planted field. With a gentle touch, he sprinkles the water over the freshly planted seeds, allowing just enough moisture to seep into the soil. He understands the importance of finding the right balance, providing hydration without overwhelming the delicate seeds.

As Vale observes the moistened soil, he envisions rows of vibrant green vines laden with plump tomatoes, a bountiful reward for his efforts. He feels a sense of connection with the land, recognizing that he is now a custodian of nature's abundance.

With the first field tended to, Vale moves over to the second one, ready to continue planting more seeds. However, as he reaches into the bag, a sinking feeling settles in his stomach—he realizes that he has run out of seeds. It's still early in the day, and he knows there is plenty of work left to be done. Unfortunately, Takakura is away from the farm, rendering him unable to ask for assistance in obtaining more seeds.

Taking a moment to gather his thoughts, Vale ponders his options. He recalls being introduced to Vesta and Marlin the day he first arrived—a friendly family who run a nearby farm. He clearly remembers Vesta mentions that she sells seeds at her farm. A flicker of hope sparks within him as he remembers that he does have some money saved up. Visiting their farm seems like the best course of action to acquire the seeds he needs.

With a determined stride, Vale sets off towards Vesta and Marlin's farm. The cool breeze brushes against his face, energizing him as he traverses the familiar path. He crosses the bridge, looking into the water with fish swimming around. As he approaches the farm, he takes in the sight of neatly organized rows of crops and the small homes situated around the farm.

Vale approaches one of the houses in the village, his hand poised to knock on the door. Just as he prepares to make contact, the door swings open abruptly, revealing a young woman in a state of hurried panic. Without a moment's notice, she rushes out, her eyes focused on the distance, oblivious to Vale's presence.

"Van is here! I need to deliver the seeds before he leaves!" she exclaims, her voice filled with urgency. Vale, taken aback by the sudden commotion, barely has time to react as the young woman collides with him, causing both of them to stumble backward.

The impact jolts them both, and a flurry of bags filled with seeds scatter across the ground. Seeds spill out, creating a vibrant mosaic on the pathway. Vale and the young woman find themselves entangled for a brief moment, their eyes meeting in a mixture of surprise, confusion, and mutual apology.

"I'm so sorry!" the young woman gasps, her face flushed with embarrassment. "I wasn't looking where I was going. Are you alright?"

Vale, recovering from the unexpected collision, quickly assures her, "No worries. I'm fine, thank you. Accidents happen."

As they both scramble to gather the scattered seeds, their hands working in tandem, Vale's eyes finally meet those of the young woman. In that moment, time seems to slow, and a connection sparks between them. Vale is captivated by her beauty, taking in the details that make her unique.

Her long, flowing brunette hair, neatly tied back with an orange bandanna, frames her face and accentuates her features. Her brown eyes shine with warmth and kindness, drawing Vale in with their captivating gaze. The simple yet charming traditional country dress she wears adds to her overall allure, giving her an unpretentious and timeless charm.

Vale can't help but feel a sense of familiarity, as if he's finally come face-to-face with the person he missed meeting when he first arrived in the village. The thought stirs a mixture of curiosity and excitement within him, igniting a desire to get to know this young woman on a deeper level.

In that suspended moment, Vale's heart flutters with a newfound attraction, and he wonders if this encounter is more than just a coincidence. As they continue to gather the seeds, the air tingles with a subtle energy, hinting at the possibility of a fateful connection that could shape both of their lives in unexpected ways.

Vale passes the gathered seeds to the young woman, a gentle smile playing on his lips. "I'm sorry about that. I can be quite clumsy at times. Are you sure you're okay?"

The young woman returns his smile, her cheeks tinged with a light blush. "I'm fine," she assures him, her voice carrying a hint of warmth. "Um, may I ask you something?" Vale nods, indicating his willingness to listen. "Could you possibly be Jack's son?"

Surprised by the mention of his father's name, Vale's eyes widen slightly. "Wait, you knew my dad?"

The young woman's face lights up with recognition. "Of course! Jack worked here on this farm when I was a child. I've heard from Vesta that his son has taken over the ranch. You look just like him."

"I see," he replies softly, a sense of connection forming between him and this young woman who shares a piece of his father's history.

They share another pause, their eyes meeting in a momentary silence filled with unspoken thoughts and emotions. However, their brief reverie is interrupted as the young woman gasps, realizing her unfinished task.

"I need to get to Van and drop off these seeds before he leaves!" she exclaims, a sense of urgency in her voice.

"That's a lot to handle on your own. Do you need help? I can carry some of those bags if you like," Vale offers.

She hesitates for a moment, weighing the offer in her mind. "Well, I would hate to be a bother. But if you insist, I could use some help," she finally responds, a grateful smile gracing her lips.

Vale reaches out and takes half of the bags from her hands, sharing the burden as they walk together towards Van. Along the way, they engage in casual conversation, exchanging stories and insights about Jack and the world of farming. The easy flow of their conversation fosters a sense of familiarity and connection between them, as if they have known each other for far longer than just a few moments.

Once they arrive at Van's location, they successfully drop off the seeds. Van hands the young woman an envelope containing the payment. The transaction complete, they turn to head back to the farm, the journey taking on a different tone as they continue to deepen their acquaintance.

As they approach the farm, vale says, "I guess this is where I drop you off." A hint of reluctance in his voice as he was hoping to spend a little more time with her. "I had a nice time." Vale confesses, a warm smile lighting up his features.

A similar smile dances on her lips as she responds, "Yes, I appreciate your help."

They linger for a moment, the air tinged with a mixture of anticipation and a desire to prolong their time together. Finally, Vale breaks the silence. "My name is Vale, by the way. What's yours?"

"Celia," she replies, her voice carrying a melodic quality. "It's nice to meet you, Vale. I hope to see you again soon."

Their eyes lock for a moment, a silent understanding passing between them. With a final exchange of smiles, they bid each other farewell, each carrying the promise of a potential connection that could shape their futures in ways they cannot yet fathom.

As Vale contemplates his next move, a wave of realization washes over him—he had forgotten to purchase the seeds he needed while at the farm. He considers the option of turning back and explaining his oversight, but the thought of potentially disrupting the connection he just shared with Celia gives him pause. He doesn't want to risk dampening the magic of their encounter.

Instead, an idea takes root in Vale's mind. Perhaps waiting until the next day will provide him with another opportunity to see Celia, giving him a chance to rectify his forgotten purchase and delve deeper into their budding connection. The thought of learning more about her, and the possibility of discovering if she is single, fills him with a mix of excitement and anticipation.

With renewed determination, Vale decides to seize the day and make the most of this unexpected encounter. He resolves to return to the farm tomorrow, not only to acquire the necessary seeds but also to seek out Celia once again. Time seems to stretch before him, ripe with possibilities and the potential for a deeper connection that could shape their shared future.

The next day dawns with a renewed sense of purpose for Vale. He immerses himself in the tasks around the ranch, tending to the budding crops that show promising signs of his newfound green thumb. The previous day's shipment of milk has brought him a decent payment, further fueling his determination to succeed in his new venture.

In the midst of his work, Vale engages in a discussion with Takakura about the prospect of introducing chickens to the ranch. The conversation reminds him of the increasing responsibilities he now shoulders as a rancher, but he embraces the challenge, ready to see his ranch take flight.

As he diligently tends to his duties, a familiar voice wafts through the air, capturing Vale's attention. He turns, a smile spreading across his face as he catches sight of Celia walking toward him. With a sense of eagerness, he sets aside his tools and wipes the dirt from his hands, eager to greet her.

"Hey, Vale, how are you today?" Celia asks, her warm smile lighting up her face.

"I'm good," Vale replies, a touch of self-consciousness coloring his words. "I didn't expect to see you so soon. I apologize for my appearance, but being a rancher keeps me busy."

Celia giggles softly, her laughter infectious. "No need to apologize, Vale. You look like a hardworking rancher, and that's a good thing."

Encouraged by her response, Vale's excitement grows when Celia mentions having the day off and suggests taking a walk around the village together. He can't hide the delight in his voice as he answers, "Sure, I'd love to keep you company, Celia."

As Vale continues his tasks around the ranch, he steals glances at Celia, who sits on the fence surrounding the pasture, observing his work. He takes pride in her presence, wanting to show her his dedication and ability to handle the responsibilities of the ranch. The thought of spending time with her after his chores add an extra spring to his step.

Finally, the moment arrives when Vale finishes his tasks. He helps Celia off the fence, a warmth spreading through his chest. "Sorry about the wait. Shall we?"

Celia nods eagerly, and together, they leave the farm, venturing into the village. Celia becomes Vale's guide, leading him to her favorite spots. Their first stop is the bridge, where they lean against the railing, watching the graceful dance of fish in the river below. Celia explains that this spot is a beloved meeting point in the village, with the cool water creating a refreshing atmosphere.

Moving on, they reach a serene lake near the swamp, where a large turtle resides. Celia shares the legend of the turtle, believed to have been there longer than the village itself, its age shrouded in mystery. They linger for a while, appreciating the tranquil beauty of the area.

Their walk continues, and soon they find themselves in a field of vibrant flowers. Celia's eyes light up with fondness as she explains how she enjoys setting up picnics in this picturesque spot during her free time. Vale takes in the scene, the colorful blooms contrasting with the endless possibilities that seem to blossom between them.

As they stroll through the picturesque valley, Vale's attention is drawn to the absence of any mention of a boyfriend from Celia. Her conversations focus on their surroundings, shared experiences, and laughter. The more they interact, the more Vale's hope begins to flicker within him, igniting a growing sense of optimism. He starts to wonder if there could be something more between them, a deeper connection beyond friendship.

In the midst of their walk, the ordinary moments they share take on a whole new significance in Vale's eyes. The simple act of exploring the village together, witnessing the natural beauty around them, and engaging in light-hearted conversations suddenly become infused with a touch of magic. Each step they take, each word they exchange, brings them closer, making Vale's heart flutter with anticipation.

As they continue their journey through the valley, Vale can't help but let his imagination wander, envisioning a future where they share not only walks but also dreams, laughter, and even the challenges that lie ahead. The budding connection between them fills him with a mix of excitement and nervousness, creating a bittersweet symphony of emotions within his chest.

Although uncertain about Celia's feelings and her availability, Vale cherishes the moments they spend together. He savors the enchanting atmosphere and the sense of possibility that hangs in the air. As the sun bathes the landscape in a warm glow, Vale dares to believe that these seemingly mundane moments may hold the key to something extraordinary, a love story waiting to unfold in the heart of Forget-Me-Not Valley.

The last stop of their leisurely stroll takes them up a winding road near Vale’s ranch, meandering through the picturesque forest of Forget-Me-Not Valley, until they reach a hidden gem—a secret pond. Nestled among the green forest, the pristine water sparkles with a captivating aura, reflecting the beauty of the surrounding nature. The air is filled with tranquility, as if time stands still in this enchanted corner of the world.

Standing by the shimmering pond, Vale's eyes widen with awe. The scene before him feels like a page torn from a fairytale. A majestic tree, its branches reaching towards the heavens, stands proudly nearby. At the base of the tree, a small door, barely noticeable to the untrained eye, adds an air of mystery and wonder. It’s too small to walk in, but it beckons to be explored, inviting them into a world of imagination and possibility.

The flowers that adorn this hidden oasis are unlike anything Vale has ever seen. Tall and elegant, their fruit glisten like precious gems, radiating a soft, ethereal glow. Their presence adds to the otherworldly ambiance, enhancing the sense of wonder that fills the air. It's a sight that takes his breath away, leaving him marveling at the secrets this valley holds.

Lost in the beauty of this hidden sanctuary, Vale's mind races with curiosity. He can't help but wonder how many more undiscovered treasures lie concealed within the depths of Forget-Me-Not Valley. Are there more hidden ponds, enchanted forests, or magical nooks waiting to be found? The thought ignites a sense of adventure within him, fueling a desire to explore every nook and cranny of this remarkable place.

As Vale stands there, spellbound by the mystical scenery, he realizes that this moment, shared with Celia, is one he will forever cherish. The hidden pond becomes more than just a physical place; it becomes a symbol of the extraordinary experiences and discoveries that await them in their journey together. And with each passing second, his heart swells with gratitude for the unexpected beauty that life has unveiled in this hidden corner of the valley.

"This is my favorite place in the valley," said Celia. "Rumor has it that this place is home to the Harvest Goddess and her nature sprites. Sometimes I would offer flowers to the goddess and pray that my wishes were granted. I know it sounds silly, but I feel happy when I do that."

Vale listens attentively to Celia's words, captivated by the heartfelt connection she has with this special place. Her voice carries a hint of wonder and reverence, as if the stories and legends of the Harvest Goddess and the nature sprites hold a deep meaning for her.

"It doesn't sound silly at all," Vale replies with a gentle smile. "In fact, it sounds beautiful. There's something magical about believing in magic and finding peace in nature's embrace. It's moments like these that remind us of the magic that exists in the world."

As they stand near the mystical tree, Vale can't help but feel a sense of reverence himself. The tranquility of the hidden lake, coupled with Celia's genuine connection to this place, infuses him with a newfound appreciation for the mysteries and wonders that lie beyond the surface of everyday life.

In that moment, Vale realizes that their connection runs deeper than he initially thought. They share a mutual appreciation for the beauty of the valley, the wonders of nature, and the belief in something greater than themselves. It's a bond that strengthens their growing friendship and sparks the ember of something more.

Vale takes a deep breath, his heart pounding with anticipation. This is the moment he has been waiting for, a chance to express his feelings to Celia. "Can I ask you something?" he begins, his voice filled with a mixture of nervousness and hope. "Do you have a boyfriend, or anyone special in your life?"

Celia's cheeks turn a rosy shade as she meets Vale's gaze. She hesitates for a moment before answering, "No... Well, not really."

Vale's heart skips a beat, sensing a glimmer of possibility. "What do you mean?" he asks, his voice filled with curiosity.

With a hint of sadness in her eyes, Celia opens up about her situation. "You see, Vesta, the owner of the farm I work at, wants me to have an arranged marriage. She hasn't found a suitable match yet, but she believes it would be for my own good."

A mixture of sympathy and determination fills Vale's heart as he listens to her. "Is that what you want?" he inquires gently, wanting to understand her true desires.

Celia shakes her head, her expression reflecting her inner conflict. "No, Vale. I want to find love in a more traditional way. I've always dreamed of meeting someone who shares my passion for this valley, someone hardworking and kind-hearted. Marrying someone I don't know just doesn't feel right to me. I want to choose my own partner and live a life filled with happiness and love."

Vale's admiration for Celia deepens as he witnesses her unwavering belief in following her heart. His own feelings for her grow stronger with every word she speaks. He takes a moment to gather his thoughts before responding, his voice filled with sincerity.

"I agree with you, Celia. I understand how important it is to find love on your own terms. I think it’s pretty brave to go against the expectations of others and listen to your own wishes. "

Celia's eyes meet Vale's, a mixture of surprise and hope shining through. "You do?" she asks, her voice laced with a hint of vulnerability.

Vale nods. “I hope that you’ll get your wish.”

As they stand there, entranced by the serene beauty of the pond, Vale and Celia soak in the tranquility of the moment. The rippling water mirrors their newfound connection, each wave reflecting the hope and excitement swirling within their hearts. Time seems to stand still as they share their dreams and aspirations, creating a strong bond that only grows stronger with every word spoken.

Reluctantly, they bid farewell to the magical spot, knowing that their responsibilities beckon them back to reality. The walk back to Vesta's farm is filled with a mixture of anticipation and a tinge of loneliness. Although Vale's heart is buoyed by the prospect of a potential relationship with Celia, he can't help but long for her presence by his side.

Arriving back at the ranch, Vale immerses himself in his work, pouring his dedication and passion into every task. The sound of the animals, the scent of the earth, and the rhythm of his labor become reminders of the commitment he is making—to prove himself worthy of Celia's affection. Each day from that moment forward becomes an opportunity for him to showcase his hard work, resilience, and unwavering determination.

With every bale of hay he lifts, every seed he plants, and every fence he repairs, Vale silently vows to create a future that would make Celia proud. He understands that actions speak louder than words, and he is determined to demonstrate his worth through his unwavering dedication to the ranch and his commitment to cultivating a life that encompasses their shared dreams.

As the sun sets on another productive day, Vale looks out over the ranch, a sense of contentment washing over him. He knows that his hard work is paving the way for a brighter tomorrow—a tomorrow filled with the possibility of a deeper bond with Celia. And with each passing day, he grows more confident that their paths will intertwine once again, creating a love story that transcends the boundaries of the valley and blossoms into something extraordinary.