The Farmhand's Crush

Chapter: 13

A couple of days had passed since my trip back to the city, and the sweet comfort of my cottage had settled into a familiar rhythm. I had spent those days organizing my space, filling my shelves with books, and enjoying the peaceful countryside. 

 Yet, a little part of me still longed for more, more adventure, more connection, and definitely more time with Nic.

When he texted me about helping him on the farm, I didn't hesitate to say yes. The thought of spending a day outdoors, learning from him, made my heart race with excitement. I quickly threw on a pair of jeans and a comfortable shirt, making sure to grab a wide-brimmed hat to shield my face from the sun.

As I drove to Nic's farm, the landscape unfurled around me in a patchwork of green fields and golden crops. The sky was a brilliant blue, dotted with fluffy clouds, and I could feel the warmth of the sun through my open window.

 I parked in front of his rustic farmhouse, taking a moment to soak in the peaceful atmosphere before stepping out.

Nic emerged from the barn, wiping his brow with the back of his hand, a smile breaking across his face when he saw me. "Hey! You made it!" He waved, his energy infectious.

"Wouldn't want to miss anytime I could spend with you," I said, returning his smile as I approached. "What are we doing today?"

"Today, we're going to tend to the vegetable garden and check on the animals," he explained, gesturing toward the expansive fields behind him. "It'll be a lot of fun, I promise."

As we walked toward the garden, Nic explained what needed to be done. "We've got some weeds to pull, and I want to check if the tomatoes are ready to be harvested. Then, we'll head to the barn to feed the chickens."

I nodded, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. I had grown up in the city, far removed from the agricultural lifestyle, but the idea of getting my hands dirty just like I did in my own garden, though I didnt want to accidentally ruin anything.

We reached the garden, a vibrant patch of life bursting with greens and colors. Nic handed me a pair of gloves and showed me how to identify the weeds. "Just look for the ones that are taking nutrients away from the plants. They usually have thicker stems and broader leaves."

This information will probably help me with my own garden.

As I knelt down, I felt the cool earth beneath my hands, grounding me in a way I hadn't expected. "This is actually kind of therapeutic, my garden has just been annoying me." I remarked, pulling out a particularly stubborn weed.

"It really is," Nic agreed, kneeling beside me. "There's something rewarding about working with the land, seeing the fruits of your labor. Plus, it's a great way to clear your mind."

I glanced over at him, noticing the way the sunlight caught in his hair and the easy smile that played on his lips. "I can see why you love it here," I said, pulling another weed. "It's beautiful."

"Thanks! I've worked hard to make it what it is, and so have my parents" he replied, a hint of pride in his voice. "And it's nice to share it with someone who hasnt been here their whole life."

After we finished pulling weeds, Nic showed me how to check the tomatoes. "Gently squeeze the fruit. If it gives slightly, it's ripe. But if it feels hard, it needs more time," he instructed, guiding my hand toward the plants.

I took a deep breath, focusing on the feel of the tomatoes under my fingers. "Okay, I think this one is ready" I exclaimed, holding up a plump red tomato.

"Perfect see you're a natural," he teased, and I felt a rush of warmth at his words. I handed it over to him, and he added it to a basket he'd brought along.

We spent the next hour harvesting tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers, chatting about everything from our favourite foods, to food we don't particularly like. I felt a deeper connection growing between us, a bond forged in laughter and shared experiences.

After finishing in the garden, we made our way to the barn, where the chickens clucked and fluttered around. Nic showed me how to feed them, handing me a bucket of grain. "Just toss it in, and they'll come running."

I laughed as the chickens rushed toward me, their little feet scurrying across the dirt. "They're so cute!" I said, delighted by their antics.

"Just wait until you see the ducks; they're a whole other level of adorable," Nic said, grinning at my excitement.

As I threw the grain, a few chickens pecked at my shoes, making me giggle. "I think they like me!"

"Who wouldn't?" Nic said, his eyes sparkling with humor. "You're a natural at this, maybe i'll get you over here to help me more often."

Once the chickens were fed, Nic led me to the small pond where the ducks waddled about, quacking eagerly. I watched in fascination as they splashed around, their feathers glistening in the sunlight. "This is incredible," I breathed, feeling utterly content.

"You can come by anytime to help out," Nic said, a hopeful note in his voice. "I could use an extra pair of hands, especially during the busy season."

"I'd love that," I replied, my heart soaring. "This is the most fun I've had in ages."

As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, painting the landscape in hues of orange and pink, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude wash over me. This day had been about more than just farm work; it was about connection, learning, and the joy of being present in the moment.

We walked back to the farmhouse, the air warm and fragrant. Nic stopped on the porch, turning to face me, a serious expression crossing his face. "Thanks for being here today, City. It means a lot to me."

"I'm really glad I came," I said softly, meeting his gaze. "I feel like I've learned so much, and it's been wonderful spending time with you."

He stepped closer, his gaze lingering on mine, and for a moment, the world around us faded away. I could feel the heat rising in my cheeks, my heart racing as he leaned in slightly.

But just then, the sound of a car engine broke the spell, and I looked past him to see a truck approaching the farm. "Looks like I've got company," he said, his expression shifting back to its usual playful demeanor.

I couldn't help but feel a twinge of disappointment, but I knew there would be more moments like this. "Maybe we can do this again soon?" I suggested, hopeful.

"Definitely," Nic replied, his smile returning. "I'll save some more chores for you!"

As I waved goodbye and headed back to my car, I felt a warmth in my chest.