1. Introduction

If pressed, Klaus wouldn't be able to say when exactly he first became interested in Oak Tree's newest farmer. Was it after her first festival win in autumn, when her face had lit up in surprise and elation, seemingly making the clouds break and the sun come out with the power of her expression alone? Or was it later, when she had begun making a point to seek him out whenever she was in town just to say "hello"?

Maybe it was even earlier – the Flower Fair?

Perhaps even when they first met?

"Hmm? Well, you're a new face..."

She had simply looked up at him, eyes wide and bright, lips slightly parted as she prepared to introduce herself.

"Annie."

The breeze blew a brisk spring air past them, casting nature's beautiful debris in a whirlwind around her dull blue skirts.

"I'm Klaus. I work as a perfumer. It's very nice to meet you."

Perhaps, then, Klaus would say that he first became interested in her right at their very first introduction.