Flambéed Love (Story of Seasons / Harvest Moon Fanfiction)

Chapter 2: Feelings

The first season passed by really quickly for Minori. She cherishes her new life in Oak Tree Town and treasures every moment of it. She is forever grateful towards the people who have accepted her into this small yet peaceful town and treats her as one of their own, just in that short period of time.

Within that short period of time, Minori has made some close friends too.

...

"Since it's really hot and dry in the summer, I'd recommend watering your crops more regularly, especially the golden crops! But of course, not too much!!"

"Aah, I see! Thanks for your advice, Fritz! I'm new to this whole thing so I really appreciate all the help I can get!" Minori cheerfully replied.

"No worries! Call me whenever you need any help." Fritz grinned upon hearing the compliments from Minori, his new friend.

The two farmers coincidentally met at the mountain area after finishing their farm work and started discussing about their agricultural business. Because of their regular discussion, Minori and Fritz have become closer and closer as the days went on.

"So what are you up to now, Minori?" Fritz changed the topic of discussion suddenly.

"I'm just going to have my lunch somewhere..what about you?" Minori replied casually.

"Ah! Then would you like to join me and Raeger? We're having a picnic together for lunch."

Minori paused and thinks for a moment, before finally making up her mind, "Sure, that'd be great! It'll be more fun to have lunch together rather than on my own anyway!" Minori gave an energetic smile.

"Awesome! Then follow me, we'll be having our lunch over at Piedmont!" Fritz grinned yet again and gestured towards Minori to tail his path.

...

"You're finally here Fritz..I thought I'd have to wait forev...OH! Hey, Minori! I didn't realize that you came with Fritz." Raeger immediately changed his tone of voice upon seeing Minori.

Raeger might seem like an easy-going kind of guy, but he actually cares a lot about how others perceive him, especially girls he likes talking to. He doesn't want to be seen as a grumpy man.

"Hi, Raeger! Fritz invited me to have lunch together with the two of you. I hope you don't mind that I'm joining you guys..." Minori was actually excited to join the boys, but she needed to make sure that Raeger does not mind her company.

She does feel comfortable talking to Raeger, but because they are not very close yet as friends, Minori still feels the need to hold back a little bit. Considering they have different professions, it is expected that they can't and don't spend too much time together.

Fortunately, Raeger has always been a nice and polite young man. His grandfather brought him up that way. But more than that, Raeger doesn't like the sight of Minori feeling down. Hence, after noticing the anxiety and slight discomfort from Minori's voice, he wants to put her at ease.

"Of course not, Minori, you're always welcomed with us. We like having you around." Raeger fixed his gaze towards Minori and flashes a sweet smile.

And perhaps not so surprisingly, Minori has indeed started to feel better. Raeger is blessed with charm and has easily convinced Minori that she really is welcomed here.

Soon, the conversation grew and the atmosphere between the three improved. No longer do they feel awkward, and smiles grew wider that eventually turned into genuine laughter. At the same time, they could still enjoy each other's company even in complete silence; savouring their lunch in tranquility while appreciating the beauty nature has to offer.

In her heart, Minori hopes it's one friendship she can always treasure.

But as people say, you don't always get what you want. Minori doesn't suspect this, but the ambiance might not be as pleasant as she thought it was.

Every time he notices Minori and Raeger talking to each other, Fritz could feel a tension building up from within. His best friend did nothing wrong, and yet Fritz felt really annoyed by his presence. He can't explain it. He doesn't like the fact that Minori is giving her attention towards Raeger. Even Fritz himself thought it was really unreasonable; Minori doesn't have to give him her full attention..but if so..why? Why is he feeling annoyed? Why is he...jealous?

Then it strikes him.

'I have a crush on Minori, don't I?'