Forced to Grow Up: Rick's Adventure

by Jerry Martin

Based on HarvestMoonAddict's 100 theme challenge. Though he's just barely creeping into adulthood, the absence of his father has caused Rick to prematurely grow up. How will the new farmer and the rest of Mineral Town react to him?

38. Flower

Karen stared at Rick in wonder as Rick fought to get the words out of his mouth. His hands reached into his pocket and gripped a flower, one he had picked to be romantic. Shaking, he pulled it out and gave it to Karen, who took it in surprise.

"K...Karen, I h...have to confess...I...I've..." Rick stammered.

"Yes Rick?"

"I...I've liked you for years!"

He didn't mean to yell it. Karen simply stared at him, holding the flower he gave her. She shook her head.

"You dunderhead! You're always the LAST one to know!"

Rick stared confused.