Alex

I had never broken a bone before. I've been injured tons of times, since farming wasn't the easiest job in the world. So having my leg break was a new and very painful experience for me. I knew that it would be difficult to take off my animals and plants while I was like this. I would need someone to help me. I couldn't ask any of my friends to help me out either. Iroha was afraid of animals, and Felicity wasn't very good with them. Tina would be busy with her job, and I didn't want to bother Neil or Rod. Maybe I could ask my best friend from the city?

I've known Samantha, or Sam as she liked to be called, ever since I was seven. She was being picked on by some boys in the park, so I came to her defence and told them off. After that I made myself her personal bodyguard. She might be shy, but I'm sure that she'd be able to get along with the people of Echo. I got along well, and even started dating the local hairstylist, Allen. After some thinking, I walked to my storage to get a piece of paper and wrote.

Dear Sam,

How are you doing, friend? I have a huge favor to ask you. Would you like to visit Echo Village for a bit?

I'm sure that you will like it here, since the people are very welcoming. There's an extra place in the inn and it's close to my farm

I fell off my horse and I need your help with the farm. I know you've never farmed before, but I can help you.

Let me know if you can. I'd be really happy to see you again. I haven't see you for almost two years.

From Alex.

P.s. I can introduce you to that boy I told you about.

I folded it up and slipped the note into an envelope. I hoped that she would respond to it. It would be great to have Sam in town. I knew that she didn't travel that much. This would be good experience for her.

"Hey Alex," Tina passed by me on my way to the river. I couldn't go mining or fishing with my leg the way it was, so I went on walks. Klaus recommended that I didn't do anything that would irritate the wound. The newspaper girl had an envelope in her hands. I felt my heart rise with joy. Could it be from Sam? It was a week since I sent her my letter. I didn't expect her to reply to me so quickly. I took it from Tina with a smile.

"Thank you Tina. Have a good day."

"You too Alex. Be careful today. I wouldn't want one of my besties to get worse."

"I'll be fine. I'm stronger than I look," I reassured.

"If you're sure. See you later!"

When I got home I opened the letter. I used my letter opener, since I hated using my hands. I would always tear it open, and I didn't like how it looked afterwards. It wasn't very professional. Especially if it was one you had to send back.

Alex.

I can visit Echo Village. I haven't farmed a day in my life, but I'll do it to help you.

Also, you fell off a horse? You really haven't changed, always taking risks.

But I guess that's what makes you you. This letter might arrive before me.

Sam.

"Happy birthday!" my friends shouted as I entered my house. I almost jumped back in shock. I wasn't expecting them to throw a party for me. I could see Tina, Iroha, Felicity, Michelle, Yuri, Allen, Rod, and Neil. They all had smiles on their faces, even the usually grumpy animal seller.

"It's only nine in the morning," I checked my clock, "Wouldn't it be easier for this to be at a later time?"

"Well, some of us have to work today, so we wanted to have a quick little celebration," Allen put his hand on my shoulder, "Happy birthday, princess. I'll have to give you your present later. I'm still working on it."

"Alright," I smiled. Sam was either going to be here later today, or tomorrow. I couldn't wait.

"So you're twenty-two now? It's been two years since you moved here," Neil gave me a nostalgic look, "I can still remember when the town was empty. We all owe it to you."

"Thank you," I was touched.

After everyone went to their jobs, I waited in near the edge of town, where the general store was. Hana and her husband were giving me strange looks from inside the general store. The only person I told that Sam was coming was Allen. He told me that I should introduce her to him when he got off of work. I was going to the first person that she'll see.

I heard footsteps on the bridge. I looked up as a girl with brown hair walked towards me. She glanced up at me, and I saw recognition in her blue gaze. She walked faster as she realized who I was.

"Alex, is that you? You look a bit different. I don't remember your hair being that shade of orange. You seem less scrawny then I remember."

"Well I have been working on a farm," I limped over to her and hugged her, "How have you been? Has anyone been being mean to you?"

"I've been fine. Everyone's been really nice to me. That reminds me," she pulled out a cake from her bag, "Happy birthday, Alex. How old are you now? Twenty?"

"Twenty-two," I took the cake from her hands, "Come on, I'll introduce you to everyone."