Chapter 4

As the warm embrace of Summer fades into the crisp embrace of Fall, Forget-Me-Not Valley undergoes a transformation like it does every season. The vibrant green hues of the fields give way to a rich tapestry of oranges, yellows, and reds. The air carries a certain nostalgia, a reminder that change is an ever-present companion. In the heart of this seasonal shift, Vale stands on his ranch, observing the shifting colors of the landscape for the first time.

With the passing of time, Vale's ranch has flourished even further, a testament to his hard work and determination. The cows produce bountiful milk, the chickens lay eggs with a predictable regularity, and the new crops he's planted in the larger field Takakura built for him seem promising. The memory of those initial struggles feels distant now, replaced by a sense of accomplishment and a newfound rhythm to his life. The old fields now have apple tree seedlings growing, promising juicy apples in the future years.

Amidst these changes, Vale's relationship with Celia continues to bloom. Their bond has grown stronger with each new shared laughter, heartfelt conversations, and stolen moments under the vast autumn sky. Celia's presence adds a vibrant warmth to his days, and their connection is now marked by whispered promises and stolen glances that speak of deeper feelings. As the leaves fall from the trees, Vale finds himself falling, not only for the beauty of the changing season but for the beautiful person who has become an integral part of his life.

And yet, as autumn brings its own magic to the valley, there's another presence that has left an indelible mark on Vale's journey. Nami, the enigmatic traveler with a penchant for ancient treasures, has left her own imprint on his heart. Their shared passion for discovery and their joint efforts in unearthing the secrets of the past have forged a unique bond between them. Though Nami's stay was meant to be temporary, the friendship they've built lingers, a reminder that even the most unexpected connections can leave a lasting impact.

As the cool breeze of Fall rustles through the valley, Vale stands at the crossroads of his heart's desires and the paths he must tread. The seasons change, and with them, so do the dynamics of his relationships and the aspirations that drive him forward. With Celia by his side, and the memory of Nami's insightful presence, Vale faces the future with anticipation, ready to embrace whatever challenges and revelations this season brings.

As the golden sun sinks below the horizon, Vale's thoughts are drawn to a future that seems both promising and uncertain. The colors of Fall mirror the spectrum of emotions he experiences. His heart is resolute in its decision, and he's made up his mind about one thing: he wants to spend the rest of his life with Celia. The moments they've shared, the laughter, the heart-to-heart conversations – they all point to a love that has taken root in his heart.

But with this decision comes a question of timing. He wants this proposal to be perfect, to reflect the depth of his feelings. So, as the idea takes shape in his mind, he knows he must seek the wisdom of someone who's seen more of life's journey than he has – Takakura.

In the coming days, Vale takes time to consult with Takakura about his feelings and intentions. The old man listens attentively, a knowing smile on his lips. "Young love is a beautiful thing," he remarks. "And when you're sure about your feelings, it's important to express them in a way that feels right."

Vale nods, his resolve growing even stronger. He hesitates for a moment before finally asking, "Takakura, could you help me with something?"

Takakura raises an eyebrow in curiosity and Vale continues, "I've heard about something called a blue feather. It's a symbol of love and commitment. Could you help me find one?"

Takakura's smile widens, his eyes twinkling with understanding. "Of course, my boy. Love is a powerful force, and if you're ready to take that step, I'm here to support you."

With Takakura's promise to help, Vale's heart feels lighter, and a sense of purpose propels him forward. The days pass, and with each passing moment, he finds himself drawn even closer to Celia. Their connection deepens, and he cherishes every second spent in her presence. He can sense the bond between them growing stronger, and he can only hope that she feels the same way he does.

Amidst the daily routines and the changing landscape of the valley, Vale's desire to propose becomes a steady beacon guiding his actions. And as the leaves continue to fall, painting the world in hues of autumn, he knows that the time is approaching – a moment that will change their lives forever. The blue feather rests in the back of his mind, a symbol of his unwavering commitment to the woman who has stolen his heart.

Near the end of Fall, when the leaves have nearly depleted symbolizing the coming of Winter, a knock on Vale's door rouses him. Surprised by the unexpected visit, he opens the door to find Takakura standing there, a warm smile on his weathered face. In his hands, he holds a small, delicate box – within it, the object that has occupied Vale's thoughts. The blue feather.

Vale's heart skips a beat as he accepts the box, a rush of emotions swirling within him. This simple object represents so much more than its physical form. It's a symbol of his feelings, his hopes, and the promise of a future he's longing to share with Celia. As he gazes at the feather, a wave of gratitude washes over him for Takakura's role in this journey. This wise man has been a guiding presence, a pillar of support as Vale navigated the uncharted waters of love.

"Are you sure about this? There’s still some time left," he asked, concern etching his features.

Vale nods, determination gleaming in his eyes. "I’m sure. Besides, Celia’s arranged marriage could happen anytime. I need to do this before it’s too late."

Takakura smiles warmly at Vale, understanding the gravity of the decision he's about to make. He places his hand on Vale’s shoulder, a gesture of support and encouragement. "Run off then. I wish you all the best of luck."

Vale places the blue feather in his rucksack and rushes out of the ranch. With excitement and resolve, Vale sets off on the path that leads to Celia's farm. Each step feels like a leap of faith, his heart pounding in rhythm with his footsteps. The crisp air of early winter carries a sense of anticipation, as if nature itself is holding its breath, waiting for the moment that is about to unfold.

On the bridge over the river, Vale finds Nami standing there, her presence a pause in his determined stride. She seems to be lost in the tranquil beauty of the landscape, the gentle sounds of the flowing water weaving a serene melody around her. The soft breeze plays with her hair, the strands dancing in sync with the rustling leaves, and for a moment, it's as if time itself has granted her a tranquil sanctuary.

Vale hesitates, his steps slowing as he approaches her. He's torn between his mission and the intrigue that Nami's presence always seems to evoke. She turns to him, a slight smile on her lips, and her eyes, those light blue orbs that seem to hold secrets of the world, lock onto his. "Hey there, Vale," she greets him, her voice a soothing undertone to the river's song.

"Hello, Nami," Vale replies, his own lips curling into a polite smile. The encounters with Nami have always been a blend of fascination and mystery, her knowledge and enigmatic aura drawing him in like a moth to a flame.

"I was about to take a walk, wanna come with?" she asks.

Vale hesitates, a wariness born of mixed feelings tugging at his heart. While he enjoys Nami's company, especially amidst the beauty of this valley, his thoughts are firmly set on his forthcoming destination. "I'm a little busy at the moment Nami. Can this wait?"

Nami's gaze holds a certain seriousness, an undertone that catches his attention. "Actually, I need to talk to you about something. It's kinda important," she adds.

It's not often that Nami appears this concerned, and Vale's curiosity wins out over his haste. He nods, signaling his willingness to engage in this conversation. "Alright, Nami, let's talk."

They take a detour up the road leading to the dig site. At the top, Nami and Vale stop in front of the majestic waterfall, its crystalline cascade catching the sunlight in a shimmering dance. They remain there for a while, a silent testament to the wonder that nature can inspire. Vale's anticipation is palpable, his curiosity nudging him to let Nami speak what's been on her mind.

The moment of truth arrives as Nami's voice breaks the stillness. "I really love it here," she confesses. "I've decided that I want to settle down here in Forget-Me-Not Valley."

A smile tugs at the corner of Vale's lips, a mixture of relief and genuine happiness. "That's great to hear! I was a little worried that you might be leaving soon. I'd miss you if you did."

Nami inhales deeply, her heart pounding knowing that what she is about to tell him is crazy. There's something she needs to express, something that's both unfamiliar and unsettling to her. "I kind of need a place to live though," she admits. "I don't want to live in the inn for the rest of my life."

Curiosity sparks in Vale's eyes, his mind racing to consider the possibilities. "What did you have in mind? Are you planning to buy a house or something?" he asks.

Nami turns to him, her expression serious yet tinged with a certain vulnerability. "Actually, I was hoping if I can—" Her words catch in her throat as her gaze locks onto something protruding from Vale's rucksack. A familiar shade of blue juts out, a feather that holds an undeniable significance. Her heart skips a beat, recognition mingling with surprise.

Nami has seen that feather being used many times during her travels. Her mind races, her thoughts caught in a whirlwind of realization. That blue feather symbolizes a profound step, a gesture with lifelong implications. She averts her gaze, struggling to control the flush that warms her cheeks. Her own feelings are colliding with the weight of what she just witnessed – Vale's intention to propose.

With a casualness she doesn't quite feel, Nami places a hand on her hip, her voice carefully controlled despite the rapid beat of her heart. "Is that a blue feather in your bag?" she asks, a hint of teasing inflection lacing her words.

Vale, unaware of her internal turmoil, rummages in his bag to retrieve the elusive blue feather. "Yeah. Sorry about that, you were not supposed to see it," he admits, a sheepish smile accompanying his words.

“I’m guessing you’re planning to ask someone to marry you then?” asked Nami.

As Vale notices Nami's gaze lingering on the blue feather, he realizes that he can't hide the truth from his friend any longer. " I’m going to use this blue feather to propose to Celia," he says.

Nami's gaze flits to the feather and Vale's face, her heart sinking at his words. The weight of his confession is more than she anticipated, the depth of his feelings for Celia catching her off guard. She swallows the lump in her throat, managing a faint smile despite the storm inside her. "I see," she replies, her voice soft yet laced with a forced cheerfulness. "That's really wonderful, Vale. Celia is lucky to have you."

“I’m glad you feel that way,” he says putting the feather back in his bag. “I hope you'll be there on my wedding day."

"Of course, I'll be there. I wish you all the happiness in the world, Vale," she says with a slight quiver in her voice.

“Are you okay?” he asks, noticing the change in her tone.

Nami quickly walks away, her steps echoing the heaviness of her heart, Vale tries to follow her, asking desperately what is wrong with her. She remains silent, keeping her thoughts to herself. He can tell that something is clearly bothering her, something he unwittingly contributed to with his own announcement.

As Nami disappears into the inn, Vale hesitates, he can't help but feel like he's missing a piece of the puzzle, a part of the story that Nami hasn't shared. He knows he can't force her to talk, especially if she's not ready.

Turning his gaze back to the farm, Vale takes a deep breath, his thoughts swirling. He knows he needs to process the complexity of the emotions that this situation has brought to the surface. The blue feather, once a symbol of love and promise, now feels like a weight in his bag. The joy he felt at the prospect of proposing to Celia is overshadowed by his concern for Nami's well-being.

With a sigh, Vale decides to give it some time. He knows that a proposal isn't something to be rushed, and he wants to be sure that his heart is fully focused on Celia when the time comes. For now, he returns to his ranch, his mind and heart filled with uncertainty. He will use the blue feather, but he wants to make sure his friend is okay first.

At the farm, Celia is having her own small dilemma to overcome. She is in her room in the attic of Vesta’s home filling out her diary with feelings of the man she loves:

Dear Diary,

Vale has been a constant joy, his dedication to the ranch radiating like the sun's rays. Each passing day, I find myself drawn to his determination, his kindness, and his love for this land. His efforts have turned the once modest ranch into a thriving haven, and I can't help but admire his hard work and passion.

Yet, amidst the busyness of our lives, a soft melody plays in the background. I catch myself stealing glances at him as he works, he holds a promise of a future yet to unfold, a promise that he may one day ask the question my heart yearns to hear. I can't help but dream of that moment when he will stand before me, his eyes reflecting the love I feel, and extend a feather as a symbol of his feelings.

Every interaction we make together, every shared smile, connection we share only gets stronger. It's as if we're two puzzle pieces destined to fit together, completing a picture that encompasses all that this valley represents. I find myself wondering if he senses my feelings, if he hears the silent song my heart sings whenever he's near.

I've heard tales of love blooming like the flowers in Spring, and I can only hope that our story is one of those. The gentle touch of his hand, the way his eyes light up when he talks about his dreams, they're all threads woven into the fabric of my feelings for him.

So, dear diary, as the leaves fall and the valley prepares for it’s Winter slumber, I'll continue to tend to the farm and nurture the garden of my heart. And with each day that passes, I'll wait, with a heart full of hope, for the day when Vale stands before me, ready to ask the question that will change our lives forever.

Till then,

Celia

Celia then hugs her diary, her heart filled with anticipation for the day her prince charming walks through the front door and takes her hand. She envisions the scene, a rush of emotions overwhelming her as he presents her with a beautiful blue feather, the symbol of his deep and sincere affection. The thought of spending her life with Vale, working together on the ranch they both love, fills her with an indescribable joy. She then sets her diary with a contented sigh on her night stand, knowing that their love story is just beginning, and every day that passes brings them closer to the moment she has been dreaming of.

Vesta then walks into Celia’s room saying, “Celia, come downstairs. It’s time.”

“It’s time? For what?”

“I have finally chosen a husband for you. I know it’s sudden, but I think you’ll like him.”

Celia’s heart sinks. Since she met Vale, she completely forgot about the arranged marriage Vesta was setting up for her. Spending so much time with Vale made her believe that Vesta had given up on the idea of the arranged marriage. Now, she's faced with the reality of meeting the mysterious stranger and deciding whether to accept the arranged marriage or hold onto the hope that Vale will eventually declare his feelings.

As Celia walks downstairs, her worried heart beats faster in anticipation. It's hard to refuse Vesta, who has been a mother figure to her since she arrived in the valley. She feels a sense of duty to at least meet this prospective husband and consider his proposal.

In the living room, Celia scans the room in confusion. To her surprise, she only sees Marlin sitting at the table, his nervous expression reflecting her own turmoil. Puzzled, she turns to Vesta and asks, “I don’t understand, where is he?”

“He’s right there,” Vesta replies, pointing at Marlin.

Celia gasps, her shock reverberating through the room. After all the anticipation, Vesta's chosen husband is her own brother, Marlin. Vesta explains further, “I interviewed many men, but none seemed right for you. The last candidate even turned creepy when I showed him your picture. Marlin had to get rid of him for me. I almost gave up, thinking that nobody was good enough for you, until Marlin expressed his own interest. It struck me then – Marlin would be perfect. If you married him, you wouldn't need to leave the farm. You would even become a part of our family for real! What do you think?”

Celia stands there, her emotions in turmoil. She's torn between the desire to follow her heart and the sense of obligation towards Vesta and her brother. Marlin looking at her with a look of nervousness and anticipation, Celia realizes that her decision will not only affect her, but also those she cares about. It's a moment that forces her to reflect on her feelings for Vale and her loyalty to the family she's grown to love.

Vesta clears her throat as she and Celia sit together with Marlin at the kitchen table. His usually stern face is now marked with shyness. "Marlin," Vesta begins, her tone surprisingly gentle, "I've been considering potential suitors for Celia. It's important to me that she's well cared for."

Marlin shifts uncomfortably in his chair, his gaze fixed on his hands. "I know she's important to you, she’s important to me too" he mumbles, his voice barely audible.

Vesta leans forward, her eyes studying Marlin's guarded expression. "And you're important to me too, Marlin. You've been a steadfast pillar of this farm, and you've always looked out for Celia."

Marlin's cheeks turn a faint shade of pink, but he doesn't meet Vesta's gaze. "I... I don't know much about this sort of thing," he admits hesitantly. “But if it’s for Celia, I’ll do my best.”

Vesta smiles kindly, reaching across the table to rest her hand on his. "That's alright, Marlin. What matters is that you care for Celia and that you're willing to protect her happiness. Do you think you could do that?"

Marlin finally looks up, his eyes meeting Vesta's. He then shifts his sight on the woman he’s been in love with, but too shy to do anything about. He nods saying, “if you’ll let me be your husband, I promise to make you happy.”

Vesta gives his hand a reassuring squeeze. "That's all I need to hear, Marlin. You're a good man, and I believe you can make Celia happy."

As the conversation continues, Marlin opens up a bit more, sharing his genuine feelings about Celia and his willingness to support her dreams. It's a simple interview, but it reveals the depths of Marlin's character – his loyalty, his sense of responsibility, and his burgeoning determination to step out of his comfort zone for the sake of someone he cares about.

Celia's heart is a tumultuous sea of emotions as she sits at the table with Vesta and Marlin, her thoughts echoing the unexpected turn of events. Vesta's words reverberate in her mind, mingling with the image of Marlin, the quiet and dependable presence she's known for so long. The idea of marrying him, the man who has been like an older brother to her, feels surreal and unsettling. Amidst her uncertainty, a pang of guilt tugs at her – guilt for harboring feelings for someone else, for allowing her heart to be captivated by Vale. Yet, a small ember of hope flickers deep within, ignited by the chance that perhaps fate has intervened to offer her an alternative to the arranged marriage she dreads.

Once the interview concludes, Vesta places a marriage certificate on the table, a tangible representation of the weighty decision that hangs in the air. "This is it, Celia. You heard Marlin’s answer, the choice is now yours. What do you say?"

Celia inhales deeply, her thoughts a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. Love for Vale pulses in her heart, yet uncertainty looms like a shadow. The question of whether Vale reciprocates her feelings haunts her mind. What if waiting for him means missing out on a future of companionship and warmth? Marlin, a kind and dependable man who's been by her side for years, stands before her, a possibility for a loving partnership. She contemplates the different paths that her life could take, the swirling currents of love and responsibility, yearning and practicality.

Amid the tension, Celia lifts her gaze, a determined glint in her eyes. "Marlin, you have a wonderful heart, and I truly appreciate your feelings. But I have to be honest. I've fallen in love with someone else."

Marlin's silence echoes the disappointment he can't quite hide. Vesta, her motherly concern rises and rests a reassuring hand on Celia's shoulder. "It's Vale, isn't it?"

With a nod, Celia confesses, "yes, Vesta. I'm deeply sorry. I love you and Marlin, but my heart belongs to him."

A bittersweet smile graces Vesta's lips as she pats Celia's back. "You don't need to apologize, my dear. My only wish is for your happiness. If Vale is the one who can offer that happiness, then I stand by your side."

Touched by Vesta's understanding, Celia's gratitude is palpable. "Thank you, Vesta."

Vesta's voice is gentle but firm as she encourages her, "go to him, tell him how you feel. If he holds the same love for you, then that's the path you should follow. And if not, well, we can always revisit this arranged marriage later."

Celia's resolve strengthens as she embraces Vesta, her heart alight with a newfound determination. She leaves the house with gratitude for Vesta’s support and love, ready to face her feelings and destiny head-on.

With her heart racing, Celia dashes across the valley, her steps carrying her towards the ranch where Vale resides. Each breath she takes feels charged with anticipation, and a radiant smile graces her lips. The sun casts a warm and inviting glow on the fields as if cheering her on, matching her excitement step for step. The gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze forms a sweet melody that accompanies her journey, adding to the dreamlike quality of the moment.

As Celia nears Vale's ranch, the sight of his house fills her with a mixture of emotions. Every memory they've shared here, every glance and every conversation, has led to this moment. The thought of confessing her feelings to him is both exhilarating and nerve-wracking, yet the fervor of her emotions propels her forward.

Her heart pounds in rhythm with her quickened steps, echoing the thoughts that swirl in her mind. She envisions his face, his warm smile, and imagines his reaction when he hears her words. The knowledge that he could reciprocate her feelings sends a jolt of joy through her veins.

Finally, as she approaches the door to his house, Celia's heart flutters with a mixture of nervousness and hope. She slows her pace, her breath coming in short, excited bursts. Standing before the entrance to his world, she takes a moment to collect herself, her chest rising and falling with her deep breaths. Her fingers brush over the fabric of her dress, and she imagines how this very dress might witness one of the most important conversations of her life.

She hesitates for a moment. She has done this once before, and the results were less than ideal. But this time, she feels that the results would be different. She cheers herself one last time, sure that Vale would feel the same way she does. With a final deep breath, Celia raises her hand to knock on the door, her heart echoing with a combination of nervousness and determination. The weight of her feelings hangs in the air as she stands on the threshold, ready to take this pivotal step forward into her destiny.

Before her hand touches the door, it opens, and Vale walks out. Just like the moment they first met; they almost crash into each other once again. Their eyes lock, and a spark of recognition ignites between them. Celia's heart skips a beat, her nerves momentarily forgotten as she finds herself lost in the warmth of Vale's gaze. A fleeting smile tugs at the corners of his lips, a silent acknowledgment of the unexpected encounter.

"Hey there," Vale says, breaking the silence with his gentle voice.

"Hi," Celia responds, her own voice laced with a mix of surprise and happiness.

They stand there for a moment, a pleasant tension lingering between them. The golden hues of the afternoon sun seem to frame them in a soft, ethereal light, adding to the almost magical atmosphere of the scene. Celia's heart races, her hands slightly trembling by her sides. She's there for a reason, a reason that could change the course of their relationship, and yet the words she has rehearsed countless times suddenly feel like they're caught in her throat.

Vale's gaze holds a curious warmth, and Celia can't help but feel that he's waiting, perhaps for something she can't quite put into words yet. The moment is pregnant with unspoken possibilities, a quiet bridge between the depths of their emotions. The unspoken connection they share is palpable, an invisible thread weaving its way through their hearts, pulling them closer even in this unspoken silence.

“Is everything okay?” Vale asks.

Celia clenches her fists as she gains the courage to say, “I’m really sorry to barge in like this, but there is something I want to talk to you about, if that’s all right with you.”

Inside Vale’s house, the tension in the air is thick with anticipation. Both of them have something important they want to say to the other. The room feels charged, each heartbeat echoing like a drum in the silence. It's as if time itself has paused, granting them this space to confront the emotions that have been swirling beneath the surface. Celia's eyes flicker, taking in the familiar details of Vale's home—the rustic furnishings, the soft glow of the window by his bed, the television and record player nearby. She inhales deeply, the scent of wood and earth filling her senses, grounding her in this moment. Beside her, Vale shifts, his presence a steady reassurance, a silent reminder that they're not alone in this.

But for now, the words remain unsaid, hanging between them like a delicate thread, waiting for the right moment to be woven into the fabric of their shared journey. Celia finally gains the courage to say, “Vesta chose a husband for me to have an arranged marriage, but I turned it down. Ever since we met, I haven’t been able to get you off my mind. You see Vale, I’m in love with you. I keep wishing that I could be your wife.”

After saying how she feels, the shock on Vale’s face worries her. She then looks away, covering her face, worried that she made a mistake confessing all of a sudden. All she can think about is how she will face him if he doesn't feel the same way she does.

“Celia,” Vale’s gentle voice breaks the silence. She moves her hands away from her face and sees him holding a shiny blue feather. She gasps, unaware that he even had one of those. She dreamed that he would and seeing it in his hands feels like a fairy tale come to life. “I love you too,” answered Vale. “I couldn't think of anyone else I would want to spend the rest of my life with. Will you marry me?”

As Vale holds the blue feather out to her, Celia's heart skips a beat. Tears of joy well up in her eyes as she nods, unable to find words in the overwhelming rush of emotions. With a radiant smile, she takes the feather from his hand, her fingers brushing against his in a tender moment.

Vale's smile matches hers as he steps closer, his hand gently cupping her cheek. Their eyes lock, communicating all the unspoken words that their hearts hold. And then, in that moment charged with longing and hope, they lean in, their lips meeting in a soft, sweet kiss.

Time seems to stand still as their lips touch, sealing their love and commitment. The world around them fades away, leaving only the warmth of their embrace and the depth of their feelings. It's a kiss that carries the weight of all their shared moments, of their dreams, and of the promise of a future together.

As they pull away, their foreheads rest against each other, breaths mingling. The sun begins to set, casting a golden glow around them, as if nature itself is celebrating this significant moment. Hand in hand, they walk back towards the farm to announce their engagement to Vesta and Marlin, hearts intertwined and souls alight with the promise of their love story's next chapter.