Flambéed Love (Story of Seasons / Harvest Moon Fanfiction)

Chapter 19: Flowers

Minori took one last good look at herself in the mirror before leaving the house, constantly brushing her hair and fixing the new outfit she was wearing for this special night. She was dressed in a knee-length navy blue gown, complete with dark stockings and a shoulder cape to keep her warm. Although Spring is fast approaching, the air still feels chilly at night and Minori doesn't want it to ruin her plans. For the final touches, she put on a few sprays of the rose-scented perfume she received from Klaus, and the wristwatch Raeger got her for her birthday. She made sure that she had all of the necessary items packed into her bag, and eagerly head off towards town.

...

Upon arriving, Minori stood in front of the door way, and placed three firm knocks on the door. Her steps towards her destination was light, for she was elated about her plans tonight with her beloved. Raeger had asked her to spend the upcoming New Year's Eve with him, and for her to stay the night at his place - which of course, made her a little nervous. He promised to cook a nice dinner for the two of them tonight, and they had agreed to dress up formally for the upcoming occasion. 

The door swung open almost immediately, revealing the chef finely dressed in a navy blue suit - that of the same shade as Minori's. His hair was slicked back effortlessly, and Minori could immediately notice the fragrance he was wearing - subtle, but very enticing. Her cheeks became noticeably rosy, not only because of the cold air her skin has been exposed to, but also because she was blushing upon seeing how attractive he looked tonight.

"Minori, you're here! Come on in!" Raeger beamed upon seeing her, and greeted her excitedly before leading her into the premises.

"Hey Raeger." Minori smiled sweetly. Her mind was still fixed onto his stunning appearance, more especially his irresistible smell. She had put more effort into dressing herself up tonight, thinking that she'd try to impress him, but what happened was the complete opposite. It was her who has completely been caught off guard, and as a result she became even more nervous than she was before.

Little did she know that he has been looking at her with complete adoration as well, constantly sneaking glimpses of her cute appearance today. By now, the restaurant was dim, empty, and the tables have all been tidied up; the only source of light came faintly from his room, where he escorted her to as they both started sharing their tales of today.

But as Minori finally took the last step of the staircase towards his room, she suddenly noticed the warm, gentle, and inviting atmosphere coming from Raeger's room that he had clearly put effort into. She involuntary stopped her words and movement, as she was left completely speechless and stunned by the beautiful setting right in front of her. The faint luminescence coming from his room turned out to be candle lights, which Raeger has carefully and strategically positioned around. Minori immediately took notice of the coffee table in front of her, for it had been especially decorated just for today. A white porcelain vase filled with roses has been placed at its center, and alongside it a bottle of wine could be spotted, with two empty wine glasses.

"Raeger.." Minori began, "It's beautiful." She uttered in amazement. "When did you do this?"

He looked at her gently, and smiled, "Just a short while before our agreed time. We don't want the candles to completely melt or burn out you know." He chuckled.

She pouted playfully at his comment, but her eyes was still fixed onto the charming radiance and she continued to be amazed at the sight. He smiled in satisfaction upon seeing her reaction, and gently took off her cape as he led her towards the couch stationed just behind the aforementioned coffee table.