Harvest Moon
My Friends of Mineral Town
Part III
Chapter I: The Road to Redemption
Journal Entry: February 14, Valentine's Day
I never knew winter could be so boring. There was always something to do in the city. Mineral Town on the other hand just seems to close up during the winter. I've taken to going to the mines to dig up metal and minerals. I've managed to collect quite the stock of iron, copper, and various gem stones. I've considered asking Gray to see if I could have some items made from the material. I was looking at pictures of some new light fixtures for my living room. I'm hoping Saibara will help me out.
I bet these crystals and gemstones would make a nice chandelier for my dining room, though I should try to get some gold for it. May as well deck this house out now. It'll be more difficult after I get married.
Speaking of getting married, Popuri told me she wanted to get married on the second of April. We planned on going to see Carter today to ask him to preside over our wedding. I get the feeling he'll be thrilled to marry us.
Popuri was going to meet me at the Inn at noon. That'll give me enough time to get my present ready for her. It is Valentines Day after all. It's strange to me. I've never had a reason to celebrate this day. It feels good to be able to celebrate it with someone so special.
There I go sounding corny again. I guess I'm just a hopeless romantic. Something Popuri told me she loved about me.
Jack got up from his desk and went into the livingroom. It was another heavy snow day. He sighed. He was deffinately sick of winter. This is the kind of stuff that makes you thankful for the rest of the year. He went into the kitchen and got out ingredients he bought to make some chocolate cookies. Karen had told him that they were Popuri's favorite cookies.
Once he made the dough and had them in the oven, he went to his wardrobe cabinet in his room to get a small box. Inside the box was a silver chain with a gold, heart shaped locket. Jack had asked Gray to make it special for him. after all, he felt he couldn't just give her cookies for Valentines.
Once the cookies were done and cooled, Jack stacked his little bite size morsels in a pink box. In the middle of the box he carefully placed the small box containing the locket. He closed the pink box and tied it with a red ribbon.
He put his coat on, grabbed the box, and took off out the door. He was early heading to the Inn. He needed to make a phone call before he met up with Popuri. The Inn was the only place on the island that had a line that could reach the outside world. Most houses had land lines but were usually used for emergency calls to the clinic.
Jack quickly reached the inn. He went in and was greeted by Ann.
"Hi Jack," Ann said with a smile. "How's it going today?"
"Morning Ann," Jack replied with a smile of his own. "I'm doing good today. I'm supposed to meet Popuri here at noon."
She looked at the clock. "A little early aren't you? It's only eleven."
"Yeah well, I also need to make a phone call."
"Well, you know where it is. I gotta get back to work."
Jack laughed. "No rest for the weary huh."
"You got that right," she laughed as well. "Talk to ya later Jack."
"Take care Ann."
Ann went back to whatever her job was at the moment while Jack went to the phone. He gave doug the money for a call and picked up the receiver and dialed out.
*ring**ring**ring*
*click*
"Hello?" a woman's voice said.
"Hi Mom," Jack said into the receiver.
"Hi honey. How are you doing?"
"I'm doing well. How are you?"
"Things are well here too. How's Popuri doing? You treating her well?"
"Yes Mom. She's doing great. I needed to tell you something."
"What's that?"
"Popuri and I are getting married on April second."
"Oh Honey," she sounded excited. "That's wonderful. Congratulations."
"Thanks Mom. I was hoping you'll come."
"You're getting married Jack. Just try and stop me. I'll be there."
"I'm glad to hear it Mom. It'll be great to see you. I've missed you."
"I've missed you too son. I'm sorry I haven't been able to visit. It's been pretty busy here."
"Yeah. You said in your letters that Grandpa's store has been struggling."
"Yeah," she answered. "But, as I've told you before Jack, it's not for you to worry about. You concentrate on being the best farmer you can."
"Yeah I know Mom," Jack sighed. "I still worry though. I just can't help it."
"I know Honey. I worry about you too. I'm always hoping you're safe. By the way, have you fully recovered from your concussion?"
"I still get the occasional headache, but other than that, I'm good."
"That's good to hear. Please be careful in the future. You're going to have a wife to think about."
Jack laughed softly. "Popuri's mother told me something similar once."
"It's called Mother's Wisdom Jack. You do best to listen."
"So I've been told. Well Mom, I gotta go."
"Okay sweetie. I'm glad you called."
"Okay Mom. Say hi to Grandma and Grandpa for me."
"I will honey."
"Alright. I love you Mom."
"I love you too Jack. Bye."
"Bye Mom."
*click*
Jack hung up the phone and went to a table and sat down. He ordered an orange soda and kicked back. He had some time to waste. He reached into his coat pocket and pulled a book out. It was some romance novel Popuri wanted him to read. Not exactly what he liked to read, but he decided to humor her.
While he read, Ann had some jazz music playing. Jack perfered easy listening, but he put up with Jazz. He was just glad it wasn't grunge or heavy metal. He couldn't stand that kind of music.
It was almost noon when the door to the Inn opened. Jack looked up and smiled when Popuri entered. She was wearing a long, heavy, pink coat that had a red hood on it. She had red gloves on her hands. She smiled when she saw him.
Jack stood and accepted a hug from her. When they seperated, he grinned.
"How ya doin today Popuri?" Jack asked as he sat down.
"I'm great today," she replied as she sat next to him at the table. She saw the book. "How are you liking my book?"
"In all honesty," Jack said as he picked up the book. "I'm not much for these kind of books."
"Really?" she was suprised. "I figured since you were such a natural romantic that these kind of books were right up your alley."
"I'm actually more of a sci fi reader."
"I hate sci fi," she spat.
This made Jack laugh. "Well, just one of many things different about us. Doesn't matter though." He grabbed her hand. "I still love you."
"I love you too Jack," Popuri smiled as she squeezed his hand.
"Oh," Jack spoke up. "I brought you something." He handed her the little pink box. "Happy Valentines Day Popuri."
"Thank you Jack," she smiled as she took the box.
She opened it and squealed when she saw the cookies he made for her.
"You knew I loved chocolate cookies." She then picked up the small box. She opened the box and gasped when she saw the locket. "Oh Jack. It's beautiful."
She picked up the locket and smiled. She opened, but there were no pictures in it. She looked at Jack and smiled.
"I love it Jack," she said as she reached over and pulled him into a kiss. "Thank you so much."
"You're welcome," he said as he took the locket.
He stood and stepped behind her. He then placed the locket around her neck.
"You spoil me so much Jackie," she muttered.
"You're worth it all baby," he whispered back. He then spoke louder. "So, shall we go see Carter?"
"Sure," she replied as she stood.
They left hand in hand. They made small talk as they walked to the church. Popuri had to tell Jack about the new batch of chicks that hatched the day before. Jack enjoyed her stories. She may not be much for farming, but she seemed to love chickens. Jack didn't tell her about his mother coming for their wedding. He was hoping to suprise her.
Jack and Popuri went into the church, which was empty, normal for the time of day. Last time Jack had been there was when he had got Cliff his job at the winery. Jak really wasn't raised in a religious household, so he seldom ever went into a church. But, with his friendship with the Harvest Goddess, he has considered changing that. Popuri, on the other hand, went to church every Sunday. She had tried more than once to get Jack to go. He'd always tell her he'd think about it. They went to the door to Carter's office and knocked.
"Come in," they heard Carter's voice.
Carter smiled at them as they entered the office.
"Hello Popuri," Carter said. "And hello Jack."
"Hi Carter," Popuri replied with a smile.
"Hello Father," Jack said.
"You can call me Carter, Jack," Carter said. "You need'nt call me Father.'
Jack nodded.
"So," Carter continued. "To what do I owe the honor of your visit on this beautiful day?"
"Well," Popuri said with a smile and a light blush. "Jack and I have decided on a date to get married."
"Really?" Carter replied.
"Yeah," Popuri continued. "We chose April second. And we were hoping you would preside over the ceremony."
Carter nodded. "I would be honored to perform the ceremony."
"YAY!" Popuri exclaimed and gave Carter a huh. "Thank you Carter. You're the best."
Carter laughed when she hugged him. He always seemed to enjoy her enthusiasm.
"Thank you Carter," Jack said.
"You are both very welcome," Carter replied.
Popuri and Jack left the church since Popuri had to go back home since she said she had some chores she had to get done. After Jack escorted her home, he went back to his house. When he entered the gate, he saw Karen and Rick standing there. He sighed. He couldn't say he was excited to deal with Rick. Goddess knows he's tried to understand the guy. Jack waved to them as he walked up. Karen waved back.
"Hey guys," Jack said. "What can I do for you today?"
"Well," Karen said. "I brought this bonehead over here because you two need to talk about whatever it is that's gotten up your asses."
"I got nothin against him," Jack said, pointing at Rick.
"Neither do I," Rick huffed.
"Bullshit," Karen snapped as she stamped her foot. "You two have been ready to kill eachother more than once. I, for one, am sick of it. Now, you two need to iron this out now. You two are gonna be family soon. So, start acting like it."
"I don't know what you're hoping to hear Karen," Rick said, sounding irritated. "I can't stand the guy."
"That's a load of crap Rick," Karen shot back. "you two were buddies until he and your sister got together. And I do believe you and me were the ones who tried to get them together. So, cut the crap Rick."
Rick looked at Jack, who glared back. Back on New Years his mom told Jack his dislike of him came from his hatred of his father. That was only part of it.
"I don't want my sister hurt again by you Jack," Rick said. "She doesn't need that."
"When did I hurt her?" Jack asked, confused. Karen stayed quiet.
"I watched my little sister get her heart torn apart. She was only four years old."
Wait a minute," Jack put his hand up. "This is about my meeting Popuri as a kid? I thought we'd been through this."
"You didn't see the fallout from your leaving. You moved on with your life. I had to watch my sister pine for a friend that promised to visit again." He glared at Jack. "You have no idea what it's like to watch a loved one so young lose themselves in their own mind."
Jack saw some pain in Rick's eyes. There was nothing he could say.
"She disappeared one day the following summer," Rick continued. "I found her unconscious on the beach. She'd tried swimming away from the island. While she recovered, I kept hearing her mutter your name Jack. It made me hate you. My sister suffered because of you."
"I didn't know any of that," Jack said. He was suprised.
"Neither did I," Karen said. "I knew about Popuri nearly drowning. But everyone was told she was practicing her swimming."
"That was Mom's excuse," Rick said, looking down. "But Popuri told me the truth. I told her everything would be alright. I don't know if she believed me or not. I just know she changed after that."
"How did she change?" Jack asked.
"She closed herself off to everyone. We butted heads constantly when before Popuri and I were the best of friends. We constantly argue now."
"I didn't know," Jack said in a low voice. "I'm..."
"That's right. You didn't know. Because you never came back."
"Rick," Karen finally spoke up. "Why didn't you ever talk about this before?"
"I'm a man," Rick answered. "Men don't talk about problems like this. That's what Dad always told me."
"Rick," Jack said. "I wasn't trying to take your sister from you. Lord knows I've said why I didn't come back more times than I care to."
"You don't need to explain Jack," Karen said. She looked at Rick. "Rick, I've told you over and over you can talk to me about anything.
"I know Karen," Rick replied. "But, when it comes to Popuri..." He couldn't continue.
"I need to know Rick," Jack said. "Why were you pushing me toward Popuri, if you hated me so much?"
"You're gonna see it as petty," Rick sighed. "I didn't want her to get with Kai."
"You're right," Karen said. "That is petty. I get you don't like Kai. But, you seem to hate Jack just as much."
"Look," Rick said. "I knew Jack was a good man. When I learned he was Popuri's long lost friend, I was angry. History was about to repeat itself. But, you stayed this time. I was impressed. I figured he would make Popuri stop persuing Kai, who would've taken my sister away from her home. When they started dating, I was happy for them. Somewhere along the line, I turned into my father, though I never meant to."
Jack sighed. "Look Rick, you and I have said a lot over the last few months. I'm not proud of it. I'm also not proud of punching you."
"I'm not proud of it either Jack. But, I will admit, I shouldn't have said what I did. I guess I'm hoping you and I can put this behind us."
Rick extended his hand to Jack, who looked at him and then his hand and back.
"I can forgive you Rick," Jack said as he shook Rick's hand. "We can talk more about this later. You also need to talk to Popuri too Rick."
"Oh don't worry," Karen stepped in. "He's going to have a talk with her as well. I'll make sure of that."
"Why are you getting involved Karen?" Jack asked.
"Well," Karen said. "All of you are my friends. As long as the three of you are at odds, it makes my life suck since we can't all hang out. The only way I'm going to get any peace around here is for you guys to bury the hatchet."
"Well," Rick said. "Consider this a ceasefire Karen. We aren't all buddy buddy here."
Rick walked away from them and headed for the gate.
"He's still an asshole," Jack said.
"You're right," Karen replied. "Just give him time Jack. He's slow to forgive fully."
"We'll see Karen."
Karen followed after Rick, leaving Jack alone to ponder his latest encounter with Rick. Jack could never figure out if Rick wanted to be friends of if he wanted to kill him. Jack sometimes wondered if he was a mental case. Jack sighed and went into his house.
March 5th
Dear Diary,
The first hints of spring have begun to show themselves. I'm happy about that. I hate winter. Don't get me wrong, I think the snow is pretty, but I hate the cold that comes with it. Theres no flowers growing either. I wish I could live in a place where they could always grow. Maybe someday, I'll be able to see such a place. It would be a dream come true.
I don't know what's going on, but lately Rick has been going out of his way to be nice to both me and Jack. He's told both of us he's sorry for being such a jerk. I do hope he's honest about all this and he's not gonna stab either of us in the back.
I know I shouldn't think like this. He is my brother after all. He always looked out for me when we were growing up. But, after Dad left, he changed. He tried to be Dad. That's what made me so angry at him. He's not Dad, he's my brother.
Listen to me. I don't know how many times over the years I've gone through this. I've tried telling him that I want my brother back. But, it never happens. I'm not a little girl anymore. I'm a grown woman who's getting married soon. I need to get him to treat me like his sister again. After all, with Dad gone, I'm hoping he'll give me away.
Popuri went downstairs to begin yet another day of work on her family's farm. She went to the kitchen and got some hot tea.
"Morning Mama," she said in her usual cheery voice.
"Good morning sweetie," Lillia said, looking up from her book. She was sitting behind the counter.
Popuri started sipping her tea when Rick came in.
"Hey Popuri," he said in a cheery voice.
"Hi Rick," she replied.
"Wanna give me a hand in the barn?" he asked her.
This suprised Popuri. Since when does Rick ask for her help. Usually he ordered her to help in the barn, or her mother told her to do it.
"What do you need my help for?"
"I could use your help getting bails of straw so we can get the pens cleaned up."
"What's with this "we" stuff all of a sudden?" Popuri asked.
"You asked me to treat you like an adult didn't you?" Rick answered. "Well, you'll need to help with the farm work then. Let's go."
She sighed. She couldn't argue there. He'd been doing his part to treat her like an adult. Still, she expected him to revert to treating her like a child any minute now.
She got her coat on and, after finishing her tea, went with Rick to the barn.
"Right," Rick said. "We need to get the bails from the loft."
"I know that," she replied as she started up the ladder.
He shrugged and sighed before following her up to the loft. As they started throwing bails to the floor below, Popuri decided to strike up a conversation.
"Can I ask you something?" she asked as she threw a bail down.
"Uh," he glanced at her as he grabbed another bail. "Sure."
"What's gotten into you?" she asked as she stopped working and looked at him, putting her hands on her hips.
"What do you mean?" he asked back, stopping work as well.
"Come on Rick," she looked at him suspiciously. "You've always treated me like a child. Suddenly, you change your tune."
"Look," he said as he sat on a bail. "I've been doing a lot of thinking lately." He grinned. "Not to mention a hell of an ass chewing by Karen."
"Thinking?" she asked as she sat on another bail. "You thinking?"
"Ha ha," he glared at her as she giggled. "I'm trying to be serious here Popuri. Karen got me to take a step back and look what I've done over the last year. I've said some pretty cruel stuff to you and to Jack. Stuff that was way outta line. I didn't even mean to. I encouraged you two to get together and then I attacked you over it."
"Wow," she said. "You have been thinking Rick. I'm impressed."
"Look," Rick shot back. "I'm trying here. I'm trying to repair the damge between the two of us. Don't you think I could get a little support here?"
"We've been down this road before Rick," she sighed. "And things end up going back to what they were before."
"Well," he looked at her. "Help me make this time different."
She looked away from him. "I guess I could try."
"Great," he said with a smile as he stood. "Let's get back to work. We got chickens to care for."
She nodded and stood so they could get back to work.
jack wiped the sweat from his brow as he worked to clear rocks and other debris from an area of his field near the large rock that tried to kill him. He was hoping to turn this area of his property into a nice pasture for his cattle. But first, he had to get it cleared so he could not only plant some grass, but he also had to build a fence. He had been taking advantage of the nice weather to get as much work done as he could before winter tries hitting one last time before the end of the season.
He stood and stretched. This was slow going, but he was making progress. He walked over to the fence and leaned against it. He looked toward the poultry farm. He saw Rick and Popuri working together.
"Well," Jack said to himself. "Looks like that guy is actually trying to get along. Can only imagine what all Karen said to him."
He turned back toward his field. "She probably whipped his ass a few times. I'd hate to be on that woman's bad side."
he laughed to himself before he returned to his work. He still had a few more hours of daylight to get more clearing done.
Popuri leaned against the wall of the coop and took a deep breath. She was worn out. Her and Rick had just spent the last several hours tending to the chickens. They'd cleaned the pens, put in fresh straw, and given them fresh food and water. After they were done with that, they'd cleaned and sorted the eggs so they could be sold. She was genuinely impressed with her brother. He had spent the day showing her the ropes on how this place was run. She'd never realized how much work went into this place. And he handled it all by himself.
"Hey Rick?" she said as he closed and locked the coop.
"Yeah?" he replied, looking at her.
"Thank you," she smiled at him.
"For what?"
"For letting me really help out around here. I've been wanting you to show me this stuff for a long time."
He grinned. "You're welcome sis. Can I assume you'll wanna help again tomorrow?"
"Yeah," she said, sounding excited. "I'm looking forward to it."
"Alright," he laughed. "Just don't forget your own chores. Don't want Mom getting mad."
"She never gets mad at me," she laughed.
Rick stopped laughing and looked down. "Right."
"Huh?" Popuri looked at Rick. She didn't get the sudden change in his personality. "What is it Rick?"
He shook his head. "It's nothing. Really."
"Okay," Popuri said in a low voice. She was concerned about Rick now. She was wondering what triggered his sudden mood change. "Listen Rick, I'm gonna go over to Jack's house. I have something I need to talk to him about."
"Sure," Rick said. "I'll tell Mom where you went."
"Thanks," she replied with a smile.
Minutes later, Popuri arrived at Jack's farm. She knocked at the door of the house. But, there was no answer. She sighed.
"Popuri?"
She spun around at the sound of her name. She saw Jack walking toward her from the field. He was covered in dirt and mud.
"Hey baby," he said with a grin. "You'll understand if I don't hug you at the moment."
She nodded. "I understand. You can just owe me one later."
He chuckled. "So, what brings ya bye today?" He walked past her as he headed toward the tool shed.
"Well," she said as she followed him. "Have you noticed anything strange about my brother lately?"
"About Rick?" he asked as he opened to door to the shed. "Besides being friendly to me, I can't say I've noticed much else." he looked at her. "Why do you ask?"
"Well," she sits on a bench inside the shed. "We spent the whole day working together. He was finally showing me the in's and out's of running the farm. I was actually enjoying it."
"Well, that's great," Jack said as he washed his hands.
" Yeah," she smiled. "He's offered to let me do it again tomorrow. I, of course, agreed. He then told me to make sure I do my regular chores so Mama won't get mad."
"Okay," Jack nodded as he continued to clean up. "I'm with ya so far."
"Well," she continued. "I had said that Mama never get's mad at me. When I said that, he went from happy to depressed. He swears nothing's wrong, but I'm not convinced." She looked down. "Jack, I'm worried that I hurt him. But, I don't know what I did."
Jack sighed and sat next to her on the bench. "Hmm. I wish I knew what to tell you. I don't have any brothers or sisters. I'm sorry Popuri."
She sighed and nodded. "I understand Jack." She looked at him and smiled. "Thank you for listening though."
"Anytime," he smiled and stood. "Wanna come in the house? I gotta get washed up first, but would you care to join me for dinner?"
She thought about it for a moment before nodding. "I think I'd like that Jack. Thank you." She stood and gave him a light peck on the cheek.
They left the shed and walked side by side to the house. Jack opened the door and allowed her to enter first. Before going in himself, he removed his muddy boots and left them in the entry area. They walked to the living room.
"Make yourself comfortable," Jack said as he went to his room to get a clean change of clothes.
She had a seat on the couch and relaxed. She always sat on the side of the couch closest to Jack's chair. She watched him go into the bathroom and shut the door. Moments later she heard the water running. She closed her eyes and sighed. She was winding down after her busy day. And here she was hoping to get help from Jack with her brother, and he wasn't any help at all.
Jack came out of the bathroom twenty minutes later. He was wearing a white tank top and a pair of blue shorts. He smiled when he saw that Popuri had fallen asleep. He walked over to her and lightly pet her hair. She groaned softly, but she didn't wake up. He let her be as he went to make them something to eat. He decided to just make up some eggs and toast. He didn't have much else at the ready since he wasn't expecting company.
When he finished dishing up the food and setting the table, he went to wake her up.
"Popuri," he said in a soft voice as he gently shook her.
"Mmm," she softly moaned and opened her eyes.
"Hey there sleeping beauty," he muttered.
"Oh," she popped up, wide awake. "I'm sorry Jack."
Jack laughed. "It's alright Popuri." he extended his hand to her. "Come on. Dinner is ready."
"Alright," she took his hand. "You're a good man Jackie."
"So I've been told."
They sat down at the table and began eating their food.
"So," Jack spoke up. "About what you asked me earlier about your brother?"
"It's fine Jack," she said in between bites.
"You asked for my help," he said as he sipped some grape juice. "I'm not sure what I can do, but I'm willing to help you out."
"Thanks Jack," she said before taking a sip of juice. "I'm just not sure what I can do about Rick. I know he's hiding something."
"The best I can promise you is I'll try talking to him. Maybe he'll be willing to talk to another man about it."
"Well," she smiled. "Whatever happens, I'm glad you're willing to help me out here."
They finished their meal while making idle small talk after that. Popuri helped Jack clean up afterward. After they finished it was back to the living room. Jack started his evening routine by turning his radio on. The two spent some time just sitting quietly listening to the music, enjoying it and eachother's company.
Before long, it was time for Popuri to head home. As they'd done many times before, Jack escorted her as far as the gate. He would always offer to take her home, but she always insisted to walk home by herself. Jack may not have liked it, but he couldn't deny her.
"Well Popuri," Jack said as they reached the gate. "It's time to say goodnight."
"Yeah," she replied, looking down. "I hate having to leave like this."
"I know," he nodded. "I hate having to see you leave. But, we only gotta do this for another month."
She smiled. "True. It'll be difficult, but I think I can survive these goodnight departures for another month."
He laughed softly. "That's the spirit."
He stepped up to her and pulled her into a hug, which she eagerly accepted. She buried her face in his chest and sighed. They stayed that way for a couple of minutes before she looked up at him.
"I love you Jackie," she whispered.
"I love you too baby," he whispered back before they shared a goodnight kiss.
They stepped back from eachother before Popuri starts walking home. Jack watched her walk away.
"Goodnight Popuri," he called to her before she disappeared from sight.
"Goodnight Jack," she called back with a wave before she walked out of his sight.
Journal Entry: March 6
What did I get myself into? I offered to help Popuri with trying to figure out her brother's problem. Why do I do this to myself? I shouldn't be meddling in this stuff. Rick and I aren't exactly close. I've given him the benefit of the doubt that he wants to put everything said and done between us behind us. But, how the hell do you approach a sensitive topic. If he's like most men I know, we don't like to talk about personal problems with eachother.
Still, I did promise Popuri I'd at least try. Just proves right there that I'll end up doing anything that woman asks me too. I guess I'm a glutton for punishment or something like that.
Jack got dressed for work before heading out the door. He figured he'd head to the poultry farm first. Best just to get this over with. He stopped at the tool shed to grab his rucksack. he figured he might as well pick up some animal medicine. He figured he'd use that as an excuse to visit the farm. Although, let's face it, he didn't really need an excuse. They're his future in laws after all.
A couple minutes after leaving his farm, Jack reached the Poultry Farm. He decided to go inside to get the medicine first. When he entered, he saw Lillia at the counter as usual. No one else was in the room.
"Good morning Jack," she said with her usual smile.
"Morning Lillia," Jack replied with a smile. "How's it going today?"
"It's going well Jack. So," she leaned on the counter. "How can I help you today?"
"I needed five vials of animal medicine."
"You got it," sne nodded before reaching under the counter and pulling out five vials of white liquid. "That'll be 5000G please."
Jack handed her the coins and took the vials. He put them in a small box he kept in his rucksack.
"Where's Rick and Popuri?" he asked, looking around.
"They're outside," she replied, putting her bookmark in her book. "Rick's been teaching her how to properly care for the chickens. I hope she doesn't get hurt."
Jack looked at her. She looked worried about Popuri's safety.
"Don't worry Lillia," he grinned. She looked at him. "Popuri's tougher than you give her credit for. She'll be fine."
She nodded. Jack just shrugged and headed toward the door.
"Well," he said as he opened the door. "I gotta get going. See you later Lillia."
"Take care Jack," she said as he went out the door.
After leaving the house, Jack headed toward the barn. Opening the door, he saw Rick and Popuri moving hay bales onto a small cart. They didn't see him come in, so they kept working.
"Good morning," Jack called out, causing both of them to look his direction. Popuri immediately lit up when she saw him. Rick grinned and waved.
"Mornin Jack," Rick said.
"Mornin Rick," Jack replied. He then grunted when Popuri said hello by trying to crush him in a strong hug.
"Good morning Jack," she said as she tried to crush him.
"Morning Popuri," he said in a strained voice. "Please let go. I can't breathe."
"Oh," she blushed and let go. "Sorry about that."
"Don't mention it," Jack replied as he caught his breath.
"So Jack," Rick said, as he lifted another hay bale onto the cart. "What brings you over today?"
"Well," Jack replied. "I needed to pick up some medicine for my animals."
"I see," Rick replied said as he and Popuri kept working.
"I was also hoping you and I could talk for a minute."
Rick stopped and looked at Jack. "You want to talk to me?"
Jack nodded. "Is that alright?"
"Sure," he replied. He looked at Popuri. "Hey sis, can you leave us alone for a minute? Maybe you can go take care of your other chores."
"What about the chickens?" she asked. "I was looking forward to taking care of them."
Rick laughed. "I'll come get you when we're done here."
Popuri pouted. She then looked at Jack, who smiled and nodded. "Alright. But remember, you promised I could help."
"I know," Rick sighed as Popuri left the barn. He then looked at Jack. "So, what is it you wanted to talk to me about?"
Jack sighed. "Well, before I say anything, I want to say this wasn't my idea."
"Okay," Rick said. he was a little confused now.
"Now," Jack continued. "Popuri came to me yesterday. She said she was worried about you."
"What for?" Rick asked.
"She had said you got all depressed when she mentioned never getting in trouble from your mother."
"Is that it?" Rick asked and sighed. "She's persistant."
"Yeah," Jack said. "She is. So, man to man, you alright?"
"Man to man Jack, yes I am. Still, I'm not sure I can say anything. Do you like talking about personal family issues with strangers?"
Jack scratched his chin. "Not particularly. I'm not much for sharing family secrets with outsiders. I can only assume Popuri though I could get you to talk."
"She always liked to meddle," Rick sighed. "Annoying girl."
"You don't have to say anything Rick," Jack said. "I told Popuri I would try. Well, I did my best."
"You got any personal family secrets Jack?" Rick asked as he sat on the hay bales.
"Hmm," Jack thought. "Can't say that I do. My parents were pretty open with me after I turned eighteen."
"Well," Rick sighed. "Since we'll be family soon, and since I'm trying to repair our relations, I'll let you in on one of my family secrets."
"Okay," Jack said as he sat on the hay bales as well.
Rick sighed again. "Popuri wasn't lying about my mood change yesterday. My sister never gets in trouble like I do with Mom. You see, whether Mom admits it or not, she still blames me for when Popuri got hurt bad when she was only two."
"An accident?" Jack asked. "What kind of accident."
Rick looked up at the loft. "We were playing in this barn. I was five at the time. We were playing hide and seek. She managed to climb up into the loft. She ended up falling out of it and hitting the ground very hard. She broke her arm and hit her head." Rick started to choke up. "She was in a coma for a month. Both Mom and Dad blamed me for what happened. Mom even told me she hated me and wished I was never born. Dad even tried to say I pushed her from the loft. That I was jealous of my sister." Rick closed his eyes. "Nothing could be further from the truth. I love my sister."
Jack was shocked. He wasn't prepared for this kind of family secret.
"After that," Rick continued. "I couldn't do anything right for my parents. It created the rift between me and my father. I ended up projecting that hatred onto every guy who got close to Popuri. I owe you an appology on that one Jack. Though my relationship with Dad never recovered, Mom and my relationship improved a little. Though, to this day, we aren't exactly close." Rick rested his elbows on his knees and clasped his hands. "I doubt Mom even realizes she's still blaming me to this day. But, ever since the accident, she has become overly protective of Popuri. To the point that she has been able to get away with stuff she should've gotten in trouble for."
"Like when she spent the night at my house," Jack muttered.
Rick nodded. "Exactly. Anyway, I did everything I could to protect my sister in the hopes that she doesn't get hurt again. Unfortunately, in my trying, I ended up sounding like a tyrant instead of a brother. I made Popuri hate me. Before too long, I ended up standing alone. I felt like no one even cared about me. The only person who treated me kindly was Karen. I ended up latching onto her. It's a frightening thing to be a boy and feel so alone, even though you have a family."
"You've never told anyone this?" Jack asked in a low voice.
"No one," Rick muttered. "I'd ended up living like if I kept everyone at a distance, then no one can ever hurt me again."
"But," Jack said. "Why tell me? And why now?"
"You're different Jack," Rick said, looking at Jack. "You're an outsider."
"Gee thanks," Jack muttered.
"Hear me out," Rick put his hand up. "You were kind to me, even though I was cold toward you. I was amazed how well you became part of our community. Most outsiders struggle trying to fit in in such a tight community. You also saw my sister, not as an air headed country bumpkin, but as a woman. My sister also grew up a lot after you came into her life." He looked toward the barn door. "You even put up with me while I was being such an asshole toward you. After Karen made me step back and look what was going on around me, I began to realize that you were someone I could trust. I also realized I have to shed all this baggage I've been carrying with me all these years."
"So, that's why you're teaching Popuri to do this work," Jack said.
"That's part of it," Rick replied. "I also want her to be able to help you on your farm." He looked at Jack. "Thank you for listening. I actually feel better finally getting all this out."
"Sure," Jack nodded as he stood. "Thanks for trusting me enough to tell me. Would it be alright if I told Popuri? Or would you rather tell her yourself?"
"I think it'll be okay if you told her," Rick answered. "She deserves to know."
Suddenly, the door opens, making Jack and Rick look at the figure standing there. Rick gasped softly when he saw Popuri standing there. She looked on the verge of tears.
"Sis," Rick spoke barely above a whisper.
"I.." Popuri studdered. "I'm sorry. I heard everything."
"You were spying?" Jack asked. She nodded slowly. "Why Popuri?"
"I'm sorry," she started crying. "I was just worried. I wanted to know what was bothering Rick."
Rick closed his eyes and sighed. "Stop crying will you."
Jack looked at Rick, who stood up. He walked over to Popuri and hugged her. Popuri buried her face in Rick's chest and cried.
"I'm sorry Rick," she said between sobs. "I'm so sorry. You suffered because of me."
He patted her on the back. "No sis. It wasn't you. Shh...stop crying."
Jack quietly slipped out of the barn to let the two talk.
"I think my job here is done," Jack said to himself. "I better get back home. I still got work to do."
Popuri sat on the hay bales and sighed. It took a few minutes for her to stop crying. Rick sat next to her and put his arm around her shoulders.
"You alright now?" Rick asked in a calm voice.
"Yeah," she said with a sigh. "I'm a little confused though."
"About what?"
She looked at him. "Why didn't you ever tell me what'd happened?"
"Well," Rick looked down. "You didn't remember the accident. And I felt it was better that way. I could take the resentment and anger from Mom and Dad. But, it was my negligence that lead to you getting hurt. If you remembered, you might've hated me too."
"So, you took all that just to protect me?" She laid her head on his shoulder. "I wouldn't have hated you Rick. You're my big brother."
He sighed. "I'm sorry Popuri. I'm sorry for everything I've said and done to you. I know there's nothing I can do to erase what's happened. But, can we start over?"
She lifted her head and looked down for a moment before looking at him, smiled, and nodded. "I think I'd like that, Big Brother." She then stood. "We can talk more later. Right now, let's get these chickens taken care of."
"Right," Rick nooded and stood.
As they got back to work, Rick was thinking about what had just happened. He'd beared his soul to, of all people, Jack. His painful past has been revealed. Suprisingly, he felt lighter somehow. He hadn't realized how much his secret had weighed on his soul. Even his little sister knew. His life was definitely changing. He hoped it was for the better since he was tired of his life as it's been going. He was praying that this was the first day of a new life. And he couldn't be happier.
End of Part III Chapter I
Author's Notes: To those who have stuck with me thus far, thank you. Some of you had pointed out something to me that I hadn't originally set out to do. I'd made Rick a really rotten guy. So, in keeping how I see Harvest Moon, I felt it was time to redeem Rick before Jack and Popuri get married.
The best way I knew how was to make him suffer from a traumatic incident in his past. And I figured why not center that trauma around his sister.
I hope I gave him the redemption that he needed. Please let me know in the comments.
Now, coming up in Part III Chapter II is the long awaited wedding of Jack and Popuri. I want to know what you honestly think: should there be a wedding night in this chapter, or should I keep adult scenes out the the story?
The choice is in your hands.
Again, to those of you reading this, I thank you very much.
To be continued...