Here it is. Another version of 'She'. This one is told In Claire's point of view. If you haven't read 'She' you really should take a look. You don't have to, as this one will make since without it, but it will make me happy.
Well, enjoy.
………………………………...
My life had always been so boring. I'd wake up, go to work, read the paper, eat dinner and go to bed. It was all so routine. Of course it didn't help that I lived in the big city. I was pretty sick of it. The noises and business of the city made it impossible to really get anywhere peacefully. I had a circle of friends, but they were like me. Busy, boring business woman with no time to ourselves, and no fun.
That all changed when I read the paper one night. I was flipping through it, looking for any interesting story to keep me amused. I stopped when a flashy looking add caught my eye. It said…
Come and live an exiting life on the farm! A beautiful acre of land awaits you to come and let the creative juices flow! You can plant whatever you'd like for food, keep happy livestock and live happily in a cozy little home. It can all be yours for the mere price of 25,000 gold! All you have to do is call now!
I put the add down and smiled. What a life that would be. I lay down for a moment and pictured myself happily riding a horse on a beautiful farm. I saw myself caring for animals, rolling around in a huge field of flowers…
!!
That's it! I could move to the farm! The country life would be perfect for me! No more hustle-and-bustle! Just a happy quiet life on a farm! I could afford it if I just pulled together all of my life savings… of course, I'd have to sell a bunch of my stuff to. This would work…
I dialed the number quickly and within a week and a half, I was on a boat and sailing off to a village called Mineral Town. I was sitting inside the boat, a happy grin on my face. There were only two other people on the boat with me. (Well, three if you count the captain…) There was a tall muscular guy by the name of Zach. He had helped me with what little baggage I carried. The other was a shy looking boy about my age.
I moved and sat down next to him. He didn't really look at me, except for maybe a twitch of his eye. I hardly let this distract me.
"Hi! My name's Claire. What's your name?"
He didn't answer for a couple of seconds until I cleared my throat. (I was starting to feel awkward.)
"Cliff."
That was all he said. I asked him why he was heading for Mineral Town, and he replied that he was looking for a new direction in life.
I couldn't believe it! That's what I was trying to do to! I told him my story of the city and of moving to Mineral Town to run the ranch. He applauded me, and told me I was brave. I told him we'd both be new to this town, but if we went at it together, we could help each other out, and maybe it wouldn't be so scary.
The boat docked and we took in the fresh breeze of the village. I smiled broadly and started running on the sand. I'd never been on a beach before, and this was just fantastic!
Cliff followed after me slowly, and we walked down the path into the village together. We stopped when the path forked in two.
Cliff was analyzing a map, and told me the farm was in the southern direction. He was heading for the inn, which was in the opposite direction. I smiled and shook his hand briefly before turning around to face my new farm, and begin my new life.
I stepped through the entrance, only to see a disgusting, messed up, ruined piece of land. There was small shack-like house, a tiny barn and chicken coop. A swamp-like pond, and a weed, rock, and stump covered field. I stepped toward the field, my mouth agape.
The mayor of the town stepped toward me and started laughing at me. He told me that a lot of city folk came to buy the farm, but then turned and ran after seeing it's state. He didn't think I'd be any different, especially since I was I girl.
Ok… I lost my temper a little and hit him with my hammer. Once! That's it! I told him that I had moved out and quit my job. I'd spent everything I had on this farm. He sympathized and encouraged me to try farm life. Of course I could! I could definitely fix this place up!
It took me about a week, but I finally managed to clean up the place a bit. I had some 3x3 patches tilled for the crops I was about to buy. I had even built a fence, for future animals. I smiled and brushed off my hands. Now I was going to make my way to the supermarket. Maybe I'd even make some small talk with villagers along the way?
Along my way, I saw several people. Many of them stared at me and whispered to each other. Some giggled, but some nodded at me. There were only a couple who actually stopped to talk. Hmm. Just like High school.
After purchasing a couple bags of seed, I left the supermarket, and ran into Cliff. We chatted for a few minutes. He didn't really seem all that happy, but he congratulated me on cleaning up the farm. I told him that whenever he needed it, he could come by my little farm and enjoy the scenery, or just hang out. He told me he'd like that.
I was starting to feel just a little bit tired, but I was on a roll! I certainly wasn't going to stop now! I sprinkled the seed on the six squares. (2 cucumber, 2 turnip, 2 potatoes) and then took out the green watering can and filled it up. It took me a while, but I finally managed to water 5 of them. Only one more square to go. I sprinkled the water on them one by one, until I hit the last square. I watered it, and a wave of exhaustion fell over me. I need some sleep… No sooner had I thought that, then everything went black.
I woke up in an unfamiliar bed. I took a look at my surroundings, guessing that I was in some kind of hospital. I sat up in my bed, and let out a groan. My body really hurt… I needed rest…
A tall dark-haired, dark-eyed man stepped toward me. He looked older than me, but no older than 30. (I'm 23 by the way.) He was… how should I say…dreamy? He was! You could just… get lost in those eyes. Maybe it was just the fever talking, but still.
The doctor glared down at me and lectured me on proper eating habits, and how to pace myself. I must have gotten pretty red, and I muttered an apology. He seemed pretty surprised at this, but shook his head and told me to be more careful.
I left soon after that and decided to go to church. After all, I didn't feel to good about working myself to much. I though It's ask what the pastor thought.
I walked in, and noticed Cliff sitting in the front row. I took a seat next to him and sighed deeply. He didn't really do much talking. (And he shouldn't. It's church after all.) I told him what happened to me however, and he seemed immensely concerned. He told me to be more careful, but said it gentler than the doctor had.
I admitted that I was feeling a little bit guilty, and didn't know what to do. That was when the pastor spoke up. His name was Carter. Carter told me to do something for the Doctor. Maybe get him a little thank-you gift..
I had no idea what the doctor liked, but Carter told me that he had known Doctor for a while, and knew for a fact that he liked milk.
The only way I could get milk was to raise a cow though. But I'd definitely get him a bottle of milk as thanks.
I bought a cow a couple of days later, and finally managed to make a couple of friends. I spoke to Barley's granddaughter, May, several times. I became closer with Cliff and Carter. I gossiped with Manna, Anna, and Sasha. I talked with Mary in the library on Tuesdays, and helped Rick around the farm on Friday afternoons. I chatted with Elli and Ann in the inn occasionally, even though I practically had to drag Elli on Wednesdays. I even befriended Won a little.
The only problem was that I still hadn't thanked the doctor. That's what I'd be doing now. I carried a small bottle of milk. I had to admit, I was pretty nervous. What if he laughed in my face? I guess I didn't have to worry because I pretty much rushed in, muttered a thank you as sweetly as I could, and slammed the milk on the table. I rushed out, before he could even look at me.
As soon as I had given him the milk, I rushed to church to tell Carter and Cliff. I told them about giving him the milk, and about the adrenaline I had felt while thanking someone. (Is that weird of me?) I told them that I even managed a thank-you.
They then asked me what the doctor had said. I went quiet, but managed to mumble that I didn't know, and that I had run out before I could even see his expression. They were disappointed in me, and told me that I owed him more then that. They said I may even grow to accept him as a friend if I gave it a chance.
They were right though. So, I would stop by after my chores were done everyday. I would hand him a bottle of milk, and smile shyly at him, hoping to get one in return. But I never stayed put… I don't know what it was. I just would get nervous all of a sudden, and I would have to leave. I couldn't bear to look him in the eye. I didn't tell Carter or Cliff about this.
Things changed one day when I walked into his office one rainy afternoon. I had a bottle of milk at hand, ready to pass onto him. Just as I was about to leave however, he called out "wait" to me. He asked me if I could do him a little favor.
Now, after all, he had saved my life, so of course I agreed automatically. I didn't say much of anything though, I still didn't feel to comfortable around him.
He started to tell me about a top-notch medicine that he'd gotten in. He talked on and on about it, before pulling a blue bottle out. I looked at it curiously, before taking it, and gulping it down.
I almost threw up. It was the most DISGUSTING thing I had ever tasted. I put my hand to my head and shook it, shuddering slightly. I put the bottle down and forced a smile.
He frowned right at me. I guess he saw right through me. He apologized for the taste, and explained it really wasn't that bad.
Yea, whatever.
I started to turn away, but he called after me again. This time he asked me for my name.
I couldn't believe I hadn't told him already.
"It's Claire."
I left after that and started heading for my special place. I walked passed my farm, and passed the mines. I started walking up the mountain toward Kappa Lake. I sat in front of that very lake, on my tree stump. I came to this place when I needed quiet. I came here to watch the birds fly by, and the water ripple. Occasionally I'd even stick my feet in the water. I'd never go swimming though. I didn't trust the depth of the lake, or my swimming skills. I also worried about the Kappa. What if he decided to attack when I was swimming?
I went back to see the doctor occasionally after that. I'd say hello to him and sit with him for a few minutes before leaving. I was always shy, so I never started conversations. He never did either, so it did get quiet a lot. If we even did talk, we'd talk about how work was going.
It wasn't long before the Doctor asked me to try another medicine. It started like any other day. I watered my crops, fed the animals, and made my village rounds. I barley walked into the clinic, when I heard Doctor calling me frantically. My heart jumped. Was something wrong? I ran up to his desk, worried as hell.
He began explaining that he had gotten a new medicine in the mail, and that this one was twice as effective as the last one. I knew what was coming, and of course I couldn't say no. When he asked me to test the medicine, I slowly nodded my head.
Before I knew it, I was pinching my nose and downing the medicine, bracing myself for the worst. I didn't expect to feel dizzy and faint the next second. I felt as if I was about to pass out, but I tried holding myself up. I could hear the doctor's worlds slurring and slowly coming out of his mouth as if he was trying to talk to me. I couldn't hear any of it, and I swayed and hit the floor hard. Everything went black after that.
I opened my eye when I felt a splash of water on me. I gasped for air, forgetting where I was momentarily. I looked up to see Elli staring down at me, holding an empty pitcher and wearing a look of relief. I felt someone holding me up, hands stroking my arm. I looked up to see Doctor's angel face full of guilt and relief. I blushed as he held me tightly. He apologized to me over and over again. I didn't say anything. His eyes were a little damp and I knew if I did say something, my voice would crack and then I'd cry…
This little… incident actually brought me closer to him. I could even carry on a whole conversation with him, without it being awkward! I looked forward to our visits now, and honestly couldn't wait to see him everyday.
Work tore me away from my new buddy, however. It was the summer season, and that meant constantly checking on my animals, crops, and myself. I was at Kai's a lot of the time, drinking water and snacking on his delicious foods to keep my stamina up. When I did have a spare moment, I would be at the Kappa Lake, contemplating. I even saw him there once.
Of all the times I've been to the lake, I usually never saw another human. (Unless you count Gotz.) Today, he got there before me. He was staring out at the lake when I came to his side. He was silent for a minute, then told me a little about his past. He talked about his parents briefly, then stopped talking all together for about five minutes. We stood there quietly before he asked me if I often sat by the lake.
I told him I came here whenever I needed to escape, or think things out. I came here whenever I needed to relax. He nodded and agreed. It was a great place to go when you needed quiet, because not many people liked it.
About a week later I decided to visit the doctor again. I hadn't spoken to him in a while, you know? I missed our visits. I walked into the cool room and sighed happily. Elli was looking at me from her desk and motioned me to come over. I wondered what could be wrong, so I made my way over.
She was smiling at me and told me that the doctor had a little surprise for me. I gulped. Not another medicine… But I forced a smile and asked what he wanted.
Elli giggled. She said it was nothing bad, and that I'd like it. She also put a finger to her lips and winked, telling me that I didn't hear anything from her.
Confused, I started for Doctor's office. He was looking a little bit nervous and it showed through his words. He rambled about random stuff, and told me that I was an amazing person. He said he wanted to thank me for putting up with him.
I couldn't help but smile. He was being really sweet…
He cleared his throat and pulled something out of his pocket. I cocked my head, as I'd never seen one before. He told me that it was a negative ion, and that it would be great for exploring, as it kept you relaxed. He stopped talking and mumbled an 'It's for you…' before shyly handing it off to me.
I took it gently. My heart jumped to my throat, and I beamed. I could feel tears starting to form. I couldn't believe how sweet this was… I couldn't help it. I practically jumped across the table and hugged him tightly. I held onto him for who knows how long, tears silently falling down my cheeks. The doctor grew stiff, as if he was uncomfortable and patted my shoulder. I don't care how awkward he felt! He was going to be thanked! I looked up into his dark eyes. I don't know what came over me, I don't know why I did it, but looking in his eyes, I don't know, I had to. I kissed his cheek softly and thanked him.
I left soon after, hugging the ion to my chest.
I burst into church, still feeling deliriously happy for some reason. I sat right next to Cliff, and let out a huge sigh. Cliff and Carter both looked at me questioningly. I smiled and told them what the Doctor had given me, and proudly showed it off to them. Carter laughed and said that we made a lovely couple.
Couple?
I blushed fiercely. I hadn't really thought of that. I didn't even like him that way… Did I? The more I thought about it, the more I realized it was true. After all, when I hugged and kissed him, there were definitely butterflies…I looked down shyly and giggled.
Cliff laughed at me and explained he had news as well. I looked up at him, still faintly pink and demanded to know. He said that he'd officially asked Ann to go out to dinner with him, and she'd said yes. I was pretty shocked. Recently Cliff had been showing signs of crushing on her, and he'd even told me that he had feelings for her, but I never thought he'd pluck up the courage to ask her out! I smiled and hugged him. I told him I was proud of him, and Cliff thanked me.
The fireworks festival came at me quickly. I really liked fireworks, but this would be my first time really watching them on a beach. City life, you know?
I arrived at the beach at about 7:30. Mostly everyone from the village was already there. There were families sitting under beach umbrellas, and couples cuddling on beach towels. I noticed Karen and Rick were sitting together, and bickering. Popuri was leaning against Kai on a towel, and Kai had his arm around her. Cliff was standing with Ann, their hands linked. I stopped to chat with them. I couldn't help but smile at these two. I asked if it was official yet, and if they were finally together. Ann was blushing nervously, as was Cliff, but they both nodded quickly. I hugged them both tightly in a group hug and told them I was happy for them. Cliff thanked me for giving him courage.
I walked away from them to give them peace. The next person I saw made my heart flutter. I saw Doctor looking right back at me, a crooked grin on his face. I ran up to him, and sighed. I knew I wanted to spend this night with him. I asked him very bluntly if he would like to watch them, half expecting a 'No'. but he agreed. I offered my hand and asked him to find a spot with me. When our hands linked, I felt my palm grow warm.
We watched the fireworks from the dock that night. I wanted to know if he was feeling anything, like I was, so I gently and cautiously leaned my head on his shoulder. He tensed up again, and I regretted it.. Did it make him uncomfortable? My nerves were calmed slightly when he put an arm around me and squeezed me tight. When the night was over, we faced each other on the dock. I wanted to kiss him again, but I wasn't sure what would happen… If I did kiss him, and he didn't like me, all of this would be over… I bit my lip and wrapped my arms around his neck and settled for a peck on his cheek. That was innocent enough , right? I thanked him for a fun time. He wouldn't look me in the eye, and that made me worry…
I came to terms with my feelings in the beginning of Fall. I knew that I liked him. My heart sped up whenever I was near him. My words wouldn't come out right all of the time, and my hands were always shaking. I was pretty sure he didn't like me though. He always acted distant when I was around, and he couldn't seem to look me in the eye for very long. Most of the time, I tried to plaster on a smile when I spoke with him.
Cliff's relationship with Ann was going much smoother. They were always together it seemed, and whenever they weren't, the other seemed distant when I talked to them. I had walked into the inn one day and Cliff was kissing Ann from across the table quite passionately. He was holding her hand with one of his, and playing with her hair with the other. The cheesecake they had been splitting was forgotten on the table. I was a bit jealous… I wanted that kind of relationship with the doctor. But I knew it'd never happen.
I spent many of the early nights in Fall at the lake, trying to clear my head. My fiends seemed to have no time for me. Ann and Cliff were always together, and the Doctor wouldn't talk to me. The only one who listened was Carter, and he told me to be strong and look inside my heart.
There was talk throughout the village that a full moon was coming on the 12th of Fall. Everyone said it would be a beautiful sight to watch with someone special.
I wanted to see the moon for myself, because in the city, you'd never see the moon. It was always covered by the pollution and smog. I hiked up the mountain myself on that night. Surprisingly, I saw only a few couples on the mountain. Grey and Mary were there. This surprised me, as I never knew them to be a couple. Manna and Duke were hugging each other tightly inside of a blanket while staring up at the moon. I didn't see either Cliff nor Ann. But I heard Cliff say something about the two of them sitting on the inn's rooftop with a blanket and a bottle of wine. How romantic… I remember feeling jealous when Cliff told me that.
I stopped short when I saw Doctor at it's peak, alone. I walked slowly up to him and he turned around, smiling proudly. He confidently asked me if I wanted to watch the moon with him. My heart skipped a beat and I nodded. This time, he offered me his hand and I took it. He squeezed my hand tightly and we gazed up at the moon together. I was feeling happy for the first time in a while. The doctor was acting confident, and kind. I wondered if, maybe he did have feelings for me?
At about midnight, we turned to each other, ready to turn in for the night. I looked up at him expectantly. If he kissed me, then I'd know… but if he didn't, then I'd know he didn't. I bit my lip and felt a moment of tension pass. He looked down and my heart fell. He didn't like me… I felt I might cry, but I tried my best to smile. I lifted his chin gently and planted a soft kiss on his cheek, hoping it might boost his confidence enough to kiss me. He didn't, and my heart broke.
I didn't really go to see him the next couple of days. I tried to tell myself it was because I was busy, but that was bull. So instead of visiting the Doctor, I visited my two other friends Cliff and Ann. Ann was crying on her bed at the inn. I was shocked. Never in my months here had I seen the tough Ann cry. I sat down and patted her shoulder, pleading her to tell me what was wrong. She choked out that Cliff was going to move, that he had no more money. I felt horrible, and tried to tell her that maybe he'd find the money somehow. She thanked me, but then asked me to leave so she could think.
I went to church next to ask Cliff what this was all about. He was sitting on his usual pew, head in his hands, looking depressed like he did when he first arrived. I hated seeing him like this, and gathered the worst news from him. He would be moving by the end of the year because he was out of money.. He didn't want to leave, because this was the best life he ever had. He told me he'd never had a friend like me, and he never had a place where he belonged like he did here. He also told me he'd never been in love until now. I felt tears fall down my face and I hugged him as if I'd never see him again. Cliff hugged me back and sighed, telling me there was nothing I could do. I didn't normally pray, but I did that night. I prayed to the Goddess to let Cliff stay. He was in love, and it's be wrong to pull him away from that.
My prayers were answered no more than 3 days later.
Duke had come up to me in the middle of Fall and asked me to help with the wine harvest. Of course I agreed. He thanked me and told me to bring someone else if I thought of it. It took me a couple of hours before the light bulb clicked. I could ask Cliff! If they were paying us, it could bide Cliff some more time! I didn't waste any time. I ran to church and practically screamed it at Cliff. He was shocked but agreed happily.
The next day, the grape harvest was on. Cliff worked hard, and I could see he really enjoyed it. At the end of the day, Manna and Duke offered Cliff a permanent position on the winery. Cliff was shocked, and of course he agreed. I was crying tears of joy and Cliff faced me. He grinned broadly and wrapped his arms around me in a huge thank-you hug.
It wasn't long before I saw the two of them laughing together again. Ann and Cliff that is. I was so happy for them, and couldn't thank the Goddess enough for helping him.
Winter was now under way. My all-time favorite season! I loved the snow, hot cocoa, hot cider, cookies, caroling, music, lights, the giving of gifts, and dare I say mistletoe? Everything about this season was cold, but it warmed my heart.
The doctor seemed to hate this season however. He acted cold and aloof at times, and stayed holed up in his office at all times. When I asked him why that was, he told me he didn't want to catch a cold. I assumed it wasn't the doctor who decorated the clinic then… but Elli.
No more than 3 days into the season something terrible happened. I was walking through the square when I saw Cliff looking pretty woozy. He was looking down, and fell. I assume he tripped or something. I ran up to my best friend, a hand over my mouth in shock. I didn't know what to do. Mostly I just hovered my hands over him, not sure whether to touch him or not. He mumbled something about his family and lost consciousness. I picked up a picture that was lying near by. There was an older woman and a young girl who looked a lot like Cliff in the picture.
I regrettably left Cliff where he was lying to get help. I ran inside Doug's inn and shouted it to the people inside. Ann looked horrified. She came with me, as did Duke, Carter and Doug, to help carry Cliff to the clinic.
As the doctor was analyzing Cliff, Carter was praying, Duke and Doug were pacing, and Ann was crying on my shoulder. The Doctor came right out, when he was finished, and touched my shoulder. I threw myself at him, and cried my eyes out. He looked down at me sympathetically and patted my shoulder. He announced that Cliff would be in a coma for a few days, but he'd be fine. I thanked him, my eyes red and tired. He shook his head and told me I was the one who needed thanks. I rubbed my eyes and couldn't help but smile.
The next few days, I went straight to the clinic when it opened. I'd walk past the Doctor, and go straight for Cliff. It wasn't that I was avoiding the guy. Why would I? I had this huge crush on him, after all. I just had to make sure Cliff was okay. I was looking at the picture he dropped, and put it on the bedside table, certain he'd want it back. As I was about to turn, I heard him speak weakly. He told me about his past. He said that he had run away from home when he was young, and that was the only picture he had. I looked at him sorrowfully. Cliff smiled at me though. He thanked me for always being there. He asked me to tell Ann that he loved her.
I left the room, and smiled at Doctor, who was looking at me with a curious stare. I shook my head at him cutely, and left the clinic. The next time I visited Cliff, he wasn't in his bed. I ran up to Doctor, wondering where he was. He told me that Cliff was fine, and he'd left moments ago. My heart smiled. I wanted to thank Doctor for taking so much care of him. I walked behind his desk and slowly hugged him with all I had. I was surprised when I felt the Doctor's arms snake around my waist warmly. He'd never really hugged me back before. I flushed and pulled my head back from that little spot between his shoulder and neck. I whispered a thank you in his ear and kissed his cheek. I didn't remove my lips from that spot for several seconds, until finally I had to leave.
I saw Cliff working in the winery like nothing had happened. I got a running start and literally tackled him to the ground. I squeezed him tight and told him how much he scared me. Cliff coughed and told me he couldn't breathe. I got off of him and beamed. I told him I was so glad he was okay. Cliff thanked me for the rescue.
Winter thanksgiving was rapidly approaching. I had several cakes sitting in my kitchen, cooling off, waiting to be delivered tomorrow. I had 4 cakes ready. One for Carter, because he was a sweetie, one for Ann, because she was my best female friend, one for Cliff, because he was my all-time-best friend, and one for the Doctor, because… well you know why.
I spoke with Elli the day before. She told me that she had a feeling that the doctor was crushing on me. I blushed and shook my head. She knew I liked him, and tried to assure me that he returned the feelings. She said she had a plan. She told me to come by tomorrow and she'd set the plan in motion. She winked at me, and I gulped. Not good….
The next day, I delivered my cakes. Ann and Cliff were cuddled up by the fireplace, roasting marshmallows. Carter was outside with the children and I told him he could share the cake if he felt like it. He laughed and nodded. I started for the clinic, nervous at what he would say, and definitely scared for Elli's 'plan'.
I walked into the room and the two doctors were talking by Elli's desk. I stopped in the doorway, and Elli winked, then motioned me to come over. She disappeared under her desk after that. The Doctor grinned at me and asked me in a flirty way if I was here for a checkup. I giggled and handed Doctor his cake. He smiled back at me and thanked me, saying it looked delicious. I glanced at Elli who was now hanging something up on the ceiling. When she finished, my eyes widened. Mistletoe. Right above us. I faced Doctor, who had turned to face Elli. When Elli pointed up, he slowly turned around and glanced up. His cheeks were getting red and he looked back at me. He didn't move away, but didn't make a move either. This was my chance…
I stood up on tiptoe and closed my eyes. Slowly, I moved my face closer to his. Before I knew it, my lips were touching his. I kissed him with all I had, but he didn't kiss me back. In fact, I don't think he was into it at all… I pulled away and forced a smile, although I felt like I was about to cry. Elli looked at me sadly, and I shook my head, running out of there quickly. I cried in my home, not wanting to talk to anyone. He didn't love me. He didn't even like me. I was such a stupid girl… thinking he would.
I didn't come out of my house for a while, until I got a knock on my door. The mayor was there, holding a letter in his hand. I was standing in the doorway, hair a mess, and still wearing pajamas. The mayor told me he had an invitation for the starry night festival for me. Confused, I took it, only to find out it was from Doctor. He wanted to come to my place with Carter and have a dinner with me. I was shocked. How could this boy play with my heart like some toy? But I couldn't say no. My heart wouldn't let me. I nodded and part of me felt like there was still a chance.
The night of the festival I was standing in front of my mirror, wondering what to wear. It was already 5:30, and I should have left by now. I had spent most of the day cleaning, and the last hour pondering. At about ten till, I finally decided on my white overalls, a blue scarf and beanie, and purple snow boots. I looked at the clock, then rushed out the door. I'd be late… hopefully he'd wait for me.
I stepped into the clinic ten minutes late, feeling only slightly embarrassed. The doctor was approaching me, a warm smile on his face. I couldn't stay mad at his face. I hugged him with a smile. My heart warmed up when he returned it. He held my hand on the way back to my house, and I was feeling happier, now that he was here with me. I wasn't sure he felt the same, but I wouldn't let that worry me tonight.
The dinner was wonderful. We all worked together to make a fine meal. Doctor brought some delicious and healthy dishes, and Carter made wonderful and tasty drinks. I baked a plate of cookies that we could enjoy after dinner. Afterwards, I stopped Doctor at the door. I wanted to tell him how I felt, but something held me back. Instead I just squeezed his hand and kissed his cheek. He smiled at me and waved good bye to me.
I visited him regularly again after that, feeling love struck all the time. I don't think he noticed. I don't think he cared. Maybe he did know, but didn't want to hurt me? I shook my head of these thoughts. Springtime was coming. It was a time for new beginnings, and I'd make the year start off right. I was definitely going to tell him on New Years.
Things weren't going too well with Ann and Cliff. When I saw them at the inn, Ann was always yelling and throwing stuff at him. Cliff would try to shield himself and apologize for something that was probably not even his fault. He must really love her if he'd put up with all of this. Or so I thought.
On one of the last days of winter, I found Cliff sitting alone in church. When I told him about Doctor, and how I was going to tell him about my feelings as my New Years Resolution, he merely shrugged. I asked him what was wrong and he told me that he had broken up with Ann. I was shocked…. I asked him why and he said things were just to complicated. I squeezed his shoulder in a hug. Cliff looked me in the eye briefly, then got up and left.
One the first day of spring, I was shocked to find about a million letters waiting for me in my mailbox. The last one told me that a blue feather was now on sale at the supermarket. My heart sang and I blushed as I thought of marriage…. Life with the Doctor…
I imagined him getting down on one knee and proposing very nervously. He'd tell me that he'd always loved me, and that he wanted to spend the rest of his days with me. Then we'd look into each other's eyes and kiss… After we broke apart I'd say yes, and he'd carry me off in his arms. I sighed and covered my face. At the wedding, he'd be smiling at me as everyone watched me walk down the isle. People would clap for me, but he would be all I could see. We wouldn't have much of a honeymoon, just a couple of days on the beach. Maybe we'd even have Zach take us around the ocean on his boat… I imagined waking up every morning, with him right by my side. We would have a child with his beautiful grey eyes and angelic face…I sighed, realizing it would never happen. Doctor didn't even like me.
Springtime was slowly going by, and I'd been busy with farm work. I was trying to get back into the swing of things after that long winter. My animals were still all happy and healthy, and my crops were trembling toward the surface. I was planting strawberries and cabbage along with my crops from last year. I hadn't seen the Doctor in a couple of days, and I guess I was trying to stall. But no more!
I passed the supermarket a couple of days into the season. I paused in front of it and stood there for several seconds before biting my lip and stepping inside. I was just going to check out the blue feather…. Not buy it. I didn't have anyone who'd like to share that life with me, after all.
I looked around at the store for fifteen minutes. There was no blue feather in stock. I rushed up to Jeff, and complained that the blue feather was no where to be found. Jeff cleared his throat and apologized, saying that the blue feather was just purchased no more than 20 minutes ago. I gaped and asked who had bought it. He looked a little nervous and said he wasn't authorized to give that information out. I sighed but shrugged. I'd find out who was getting married soon anyway. As I turned to leave, I noticed Manna and Sasha whispering, giggling and looking at me. I felt uncomfortable, and got out of there. I breathed deeply, and opened the door to the clinic before I knew it.
Elli called me over as soon as I stepped in. She sounded worried, and told me that the Doctor was acting strange. I asked her why, and she said she didn't know. He wouldn't talk to her. She thought that I'd be able to help him. I nodded and headed for his desk, positively horrified when I saw him looking down, his head in his hands. I stepped up to him and ran my fingers through his hair. He was startled, but when he looked up, I thought I saw him smile a little. He apologized for making Elli worry, and he didn't want me to worry either. He said that he was having issues talking to people, and he felt he couldn't do his job as a doctor. He said he was feeling uneasy lately, and he didn't know how to really express himself. I bit my lip. Was he trying to tell me something? I told him to open his heart up, hoping that maybe it'd stir him to admit to his imaginary feelings for me.
He nodded and thanked me, saying that I made him feel better. I stood there for a few more moments, waiting for what wouldn't come. Eventually he cleared his throat, like it was awkward. My heart sank again, and I couldn't get words to come out of my throat. I only nodded and slowly left the building.
I cried on the stump at the lake. I'd never have anyone… I'd be alone the rest of my life. Doctor hated me… and I loved him so much… I love him? I cursed the thought for crossing my mind. But it was true. I was in love with him. I cried my heart out for hours. The man I loved would never love me back.
I was pretty miserable the next few days. I would only really go outside to feed the animals and water the crops. I decided to walk to church on the 11th . I sat in the back, not really wanting to draw attention to anyone.
Cliff sat down next to me after about an hour. We sat in silence for a while, before Cliff looked at me. He frowned and asked me if I wanted to get a bite to eat. I nodded. I needed some food… and a drink or two.
He walked with me to the inn and ordered the food while I sat down at a table. Ann walked by and frowned at me. She bit her lip and didn't even speak to me. She ran upstairs, looking pretty upset. I sighed. Life wasn't going well here, like I thought it would. Maybe it'd be better if I moved back to the city. I had enough money to do that now.
Cliff returned with some wine and a delicious looking pasta. He smiled at me and we began talking about our lives. I told him about thinking of moving, and telling him that no one liked me here anyway. The Doctor hated me, and I'd always be single. I felt miserable, complaining so much. Cliff listened, and never once jumped to conclusions, or scolded me. He told me that he didn't want me moving. He brought up what I'd said more than a year ago. He said that we'd both be at this life together, no matter how tough it got. It brought a smile to me face.
After a couple of hours of talking, Cliff walked me home. We stood in front of my door, before Cliff stepped forward and kissed my lips. I was shocked. I didn't move from that spot for a little bit, before I finally started to kiss him back. After a couple of seconds of that, he deepened it. I'd been wanting all of this for a while, but now that it was with Cliff, and not the Doctor, it felt… wrong. I really don't know why I kissed him back. It hung over me for days after that.
Spring Thanksgiving rolled around, and I'd tried as hard as I could to ignore everyone. I kept my distance from both Doctor and Cliff. I couldn't stand to see either of them… Really.
I opened my door at about 6 am to start work. The Doctor stood there smiling that crooked grin. He had a plate of delicious looking chocolate cookies, with a bow attached. He didn't say much, but then handed them to me, saying he hoped I liked them. I looked down on them and took a bite of one of them. It was… awesome! Delicious. Some of the best cookies ever! Maybe I was just bias, because it was him… but they were yummy.
I stepped forward after not being able to stop myself and hugged him. He tensed momentarily, but hugged me back just as tight. I looked up. He was looking back down at me with adoration. I had to see… I kissed his cheek, and he turned red, looking embarrassed and uncomfortable. I removed my arms from around his neck, and forced a smile, before stepping back inside. Suddenly the cookies tasted like salt and mud…
Cliff also came by a couple of hours later. He to had a plate of cookies. His were buttery and warm… soft and sugary. It felt like heaven in my mouth, with each bite. I smiled at him, and he stepped forward and kissed my cheek. I sighed, not quite sure what to do… It would seem that Cliff liked me… but I loved Doctor. My life sucked.
The next day, after tending to my farm, I walked along the path, headed for the beach. I felt like quiet and ocean spray. The lake didn't have that, you know? I was stopped by Cliff about halfway there. He stopped me when I was just past the inn. He said he wanted to talk to me, so of course I nodded and asked what was wrong. I didn't expect him to pull out a tiny blue feather.
"The thing is, you've been great to me. You were there when I needed a job, a shoulder, anything. We're both hard workers. I'd be honored if… you'd marry me?"
My mouth dropped. I hadn't expected that. After all, hadn't he just broken up with Ann? I don't know what it was. Maybe it was the exhilaration of the proposal, the fact that I had no one anyway, or that I couldn't say no… but I agreed. In fact I jumped into his arms and screamed. "Yes!"
I was feeling happy all of a sudden. I wasn't going to be alone! I'd have a husband and family just like I had always wanted. I was going around town telling anyone I saw. I stopped at the clinic and beamed. I had to tell the Doctor. He should be happy for me…
I burst in and rushed up to him. He looked happy, but nervous. I told him I had something to tell him, but he said he wanted to go first. I couldn't see the harm. So I nodded.
He was digging through his pocket and pulled something small and blue out. I couldn't see what it was, that is until he started talking. He showed me a small blue feather and told me about loving me for quite some time. He told me I was the most amazing person he'd ever met. My heart smiled. He… Loved me? I felt like I was about to cry. I wanted to scream "hell yea!" and jump into his arms, knocking him over. My heart was singing, and I felt my lips move to accept…
Then I remembered. Cliff. I couldn't accept Doctor's proposal. I would be marrying Cliff. To take Doctor's blue feather would be unfair to both of them. This crushed my heart. I sobbed and shook my head. It broke my heart but I told him I couldn't marry him. I told him about Cliff. My heart took a blow with each word. Doctor looked devastated. He tried to tell me he loved me. He tried to hug me. That only made it worse. I sobbed into my hands, trying to avoid looking him in the eye. I had to get out of there… before I did something stupid, like throw away a previous engagement.
I did a lot of thinking the next few days. I accepted the fact that I'd be marrying Cliff. I accepted that I wouldn't be with Doctor, even though it could have been. I shook my head. I couldn't just call off the wedding. That would be cruel. I tried to tell myself that I could learn to love Cliff. I tried to tell myself that I could get over Doctor. My heart told me no, and that I couldn't be with Cliff. I had to go be with Doctor. I ignored it. I was marrying Cliff, and it was final.
The day of the wedding came quickly. I'd invited all of the villagers, telling them the wedding would start in a couple of hours. The last stop I made was the clinic. I was pretty sure they wouldn't want to, but I had to invite them… The moment I saw the look in Doctor's eyes, my heart sank. I tried not to look at him as I gave the time of the wedding.
Before I knew it, the bells were chiming and there were cheers inside the church. I slowly walked down the isle, Zach posing as my father. I felt nervous. Things started to come to me. I never had butterflies like I did with Doctor. Tears were forming, but I blinked them away. I tried my best to smile. Carter started to give the famous speech. The longer I stood there, the more I realized what a mistake this was. I looked out into the audience. Doctor smiled at me, but it looked fake. I faced Cliff. He could tell I was upset, because he whispered,
"What's wrong?"
I shook my head and responded that nothing was wrong. Cliff held my hands tightly as my heart pounded with nerves. Before I knew what was happening, Carter asked the famous question.
"Do you, Claire Davis, take Cliff Falcon to be your husband in sickness and in health, until death do you part?"
I opened my mouth to speak, but no words came out. I couldn't do this. I couldn't learn to love Cliff, while the man I loved sat longing for me his whole life. It wasn't right to tear us apart… Cliff and I both deserved happiness, and we wouldn't find it with each other. I was pretty sure Cliff didn't love me, at least not like that. I knew he still had feelings for Ann. I had to do this… I looked up into Cliff's eyes. He looked worried all of a sudden, and I pulled my hands away from him and whispered.
"I can't do this… We both deserve to live happy. You and I both know we can't be together… I'm sorry."
He looked a little disappointed, but I think he understood. I looked around. People were looking back at me with concern. I took a deep breath, pulled my dress up to my ankles and ran back down the isle, out of the church. I ran straight to the lake and sat down near the water's edge. I sat there for ten minutes, contemplating, thinking about what I had just done. I couldn't believe I had just left him at the alter, but it had to happen.
I heard footsteps behind me. It was probably one of the villagers trying to convince me to get back to church. After all, people in the village would probably hate me for this. I only said,
"Go away. I made up my mind, and I'm not going back."
I heard a familiar voice that was music to my ears, "You ok?" I looked back, my eyes gleaming to see Doctor standing there. He was dressed formally. He wore a black suit and tie. He wasn't wearing his normal doctoring gear, and he looked… sexy.
I jumped to my feet and hugged him tightly, crying into his shoulder. He hugged me close. I felt him shaking, as if he was crying too. I pulled away from him and he asked me what happened. I said,
"I realized that I couldn't be with him. I didn't love him, and I would never learn to. The real one I love is you, Doctor." I said it confidently, unlike all of the times I had chickened out of telling him.
He smiled warmly at me, "Claire, I love you too. I love you more than anything… I couldn't imagine my life without you."
I smiled broadly, and wiped a tear of joy from my cheeks. My throat had a lump in it, and my heart was beating faster than ever. This was love.
I don't know what came over me, maybe it was desire, or something, but I leaped at him, tackling him down, sending both of us tumbling into the lake, with our formal clothes on. We got separated for a little bit under water, but our hands found each other and linked. We both surfaced at the same time. I smiled up at him, and he moved a piece of wet hair from my face. I placed a hand on his cheek and brought my lips forward and kissed him, with all of my love. He moved his hands to either side of my face and kissed me back. There were butterflies that flooded through me, unlike with Cliff. I don't know how long we stood in that lake water kissing for, but after a while, it began to get cold.
We broke apart, and I sighed in ecstasy. Doctor was smiling back at me. He told me that I had no idea how long he'd wanted to do that. I laughed and asked him if he still had the blue feather. I guess it was kind of soon… but I couldn't wait. I hope no one hated me for having 2 weddings in a month.
He turned faintly pink, and pulled a soggy blue feather and charm from his pocket. I hadn't noticed that the charm said "I love you" Cliff's didn't have anything special like that. I knew I'd cherish Doctor's forever. He looked down at the feather, apologizing that it was so… soggy and gross. I shook my head and responded that as long as it was from him, it was beautiful. He took my hand, put the blue feather in my open palm, closed it and put his hand over my fist.
"Claire, will you make me the happiest man in the world and marry me? Before you came along, I was boring and serious. You fixed me, Claire. You're my medicine. Will you marry me?"
Tears slid down my cheek. I knew he was going to ask me, but my heart still warmed in this freezing water. I jumped at him once again, kissing him underwater this time. When we surfaced, the blue feather was still connecting our hands. I screamed, 'yes' of course. He hugged me close to himself. I could hear his heartbeat, and I knew that this was where I wanted to be. It was so… right.
Wedding bells were ringing for the second time that season 2 weeks later on the 8th of summer. This time, Doctor stood at the alter, wearing the suit he'd worn to the last wedding (It had been cleaned) with a black bow tie instead of a normal tie. I walked down the isle wearing a slightly altered dress from the one before. This one's sleeves had been cut off (They were ruined in the wash) and the bottom was shortened slightly. I felt wonderful walking down that isle, ready to complete my life. Although I had been expecting no one to come, or people to come with tomatoes to throw, everyone showed up with smiles. As Carter began his speech, I stared up at Doctor with love, and he returned it. I couldn't be happier. This time when Carter asked me the famous question, I immediately responded,
"I do."
And Doctor said the same. Carter pronounced us husband and wife, and we kissed to seal it. There was cheering and confetti being thrown in the church. Doctor slipped a ring on my finger, and I got ready to toss my bouquet. All of the bachelorettes in the village stood exited when I tossed it. I turned around to see that Ann was holding it. She turned red and glanced at Cliff, who looked immensely embarrassed, yet happy.
I was congratulated everywhere I went. When I asked them what they thought of me walking down the isle twice, the told me that Cliff and I were never meant to be. They were happy to see me so happy. I teared up every time.
The first few days of married life were amazing. I was still shocked after waking up every morning and seeing him next to me. It was just like all of my dreams. We snuggled up close every night, and a couple of times things got… um… kind of crazy, but we loved each other, and we were married. I cooked for the Doctor every morning at 6 am, and every night at 6 pm. We went to work like usual every day. Sometimes Doctor would cut out early and take me to the beach, lake, or mountain to have a romantic picnic. Eventually the Doctor asked me to call him Tim, as it was his real name. I said I'd try, but I didn't know if I could break the habit.
Two weeks after being married, I was walking along on my own, and decided to pay Cliff a visit. I owed him for… you know… leaving him at the alter.
I walked down to the wine cellar to see Cliff inspecting bottles.. I leaned against the wall and asked him how it was going. He greeted me with a smile and a 'hey'.
I looked at my feet and apologized for leaving him, and then marrying not even a month later. He shook his head and insisted it was ok. He thanked me, and told me that he would've made a big mistake. I glared at him, and he defended, saying he didn't mean it like that. He said that I was right. He didn't love me like that. He still loved Ann. He said that he guessed he was using me as some sort of rebound. I felt a little upset at this, but I was happy for him. I asked him if he and Ann were together yet. He told me no, but they had started talking, and things were smooth with them again. I congratulated him.
The fireworks festival was even more wonderful that year. We decided not to go to the beach this year, but instead to watch the fireworks from the rooftop of our house instead. Tim had set up a blanket and pillows up on the roof. He brought a bottle of wine and cheese and chocolate. It was a terrific night watching them together, snuggling up on the roof. Eventually we did fall asleep up there, and awoke the next morning with rain pouring down on us.
I started to feel pretty sick the first few days of Autumn. Tim offered to take me to the clinic to take a look at me. I wondered why he couldn't just examine him here, but I said nothing. After an examination, Tim wore a huge smile and told me I was pregnant. I jumped for joy and hugged him tightly. He couldn't tell me the sex here, as he didn't really have the equipment, but I didn't care. We were having a baby…
I felt the baby more and more each day. I had cravings for the most disgusting and random things, like chocolate dipped in butter or corn covered with curry. Tim stood by me all the way, and I loved him even more for it.
On Spring 8th the next year, I went into labor. Elli was there to deliver the baby. Doctor was forced to stay away. I don't know why he couldn't help! A baby boy was delivered to my bedside, and I beamed. I wasn't sure what to call him at first, but when I looked up at Tim, I knew. I'd call his son, Tim. Timmy Cliff Doctor would be his full name. Just when I thought I was done with babies, Elli told me I had another coming. I groaned through the pain until a baby girl was born… Twins. I had beautiful fraternal twins. I named the girl Annabelle, Anna for short.
Tim and I raised the babies as best we could. The two of them looked a lot alike, but different eyes. Timmy had large blue eyes, and Anna had grayish-blue eyes that were smaller. Timmy had no hair, but Ana was already sprouting short blonde hair. Our children were beautiful.
Our first anniversary was magical. I couldn't believe we'd really been together a whole year. I kissed him first thing when he woke up, and he grinned, kissing me back. The morning breath didn't seem to bother us… We spent our anniversary at the lake, asking Elli to watch the children. It was magical. Every time I looked into his eyes, I knew I made the right choice.
A little bit later in the year, I noticed Ann and Cliff were friendly again. Very friendly. They were always hand-in-hand, kissing, or holding onto each other in some way. I was happy for them. Things were turning out well for every one.
It wasn't long later, until our children learned to crawl, then walk. I remember crying with the video camera, with Tim holding me tightly. Anna and Timmy could speak a bit. They could say "Mama, and Dadda" as well as, "More and milk" My heart melted every time I saw them playing with my animals. Anna was quite attached to faming, and my horse. Here long blonde hair was tied back in a ribbon as she stood outside petting the animals as a toddler. Timmy spent most of his time with his father, following him to work, and wearing Daddy's doctor clothes. It tugged at my heartstrings.
Later that year, Cliff was at my door, dressed formally. I was shocked to see him, and he told me the happy news. He and Ann were getting married that day! He had come to invite me to the wedding. I jumped up and down and hugged him in congratulations. He smiled and said if it wasn't for me, he couldn't be with his true love. My thought exactly, except it was for Tim.
Tim and the children and I made our way to church, all dressed formally. The children weren't happy. They both hated having their hair brushed back. They seemed to prefer getting dirty. Especially Anna. I knew she'd rather be with the animals. I watched as Cliff stood at the alter, and as Ann walked down the isle. Her hair was down and she looked beautiful. Carter gave the famous speech and their lips met, tying them for life as husband and wife.
Cliff and Ann only had one child. She was a brown-eyed red haired beautiful girl, who grew to be a beautiful woman. Anna and Timmy both grew into beautiful adults. At age 18, Timmy was a tall, dark haired, bright eyed man, who had caught every girl's eye. He and May had gone out for the longest time, but eventually May and Stu ran off together. The two of them were also attractive as 25 year olds go. Timmy himself, ended up falling for Cliff's daughter, Rose. The two of them married when Timmy was 22, and Rose was 19. Timmy took over for my husband when he retired, and he and his wife lived there together.
Elli had run off with a handsome farmer named Jack. He'd come to town for only a year, but they ended up eloping on the ship out of town. I don't really see her anymore.
Anna moved away from the farm sadly. She told me about a wonderful place called Forget-me-Not Valley, where she wanted to move and start her own farm. The land was great, and the animals plentiful and beautiful. I was sad to see my daughter go, but I knew it was for the best. I get a letter from her every so often. One just a few years ago telling me she had married a wonderful man named Marlin, a farmhand. They had a beautiful son named Aaron, and she wanted the family to visit soon. We did of course, and I have to say, she was doing very well for herself. Her husband was tall dark and handsome, but a little shy.. (he reminded me of a young Tim) They had a blue eyed, dark haired, gorgeous son. Her animals were beautiful. I had never seen so many different cows! She even had a goat!
I sat down by the lake after all these years and sighed. Life had been… perfect. I had lived a wonderful life, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. I continued work on the farm (I was only 47...) living side by side with Tim, the man of my dreams for the past 24 years. I cupped my hands and looked down at the blue feather in my hands. I smiled as a gentle breeze blew past. Doctor sat down beside me, and I leaned against him. Our perfect life had only begun. I turned my head and kissed his cheek and whispered
"Thank you…" in his ear.
I love you Doctor.
………………………………...
Whew… That took me a while. It's twice the length! :D I wasn't expecting to make it that long! I hope you guys enjoyed it, and didn't get too bored! I really hope you liked this version, and the ending. :D Make me happy with reviews!
Disclaimer: I don't own Harvest Moon.