"What is next on the agenda for today?"
"We have the evaluation of Store Manager #2064. Name is Morris…"
"I recognize the name…but briefly…if I remember…"
"He's currently under investigation for a claim of workplace harassment. The employee who made this claim has been dealt with…but it's still pending a formal investigation. Other than that, he's a model employee with a lot of…enthusiasm for the Joja Corporation. He was recently given a promotion before the incident and is stationed in one of our smaller stores. This being located in Stardew Valley's Pelican Town…"
"Right yes…Stardew Valley…it's been years since I've heard that name. Is there anything else I need to know before this starts?"
"No sir, that's all the details. I'll start the call…"
In a penthouse office on the top floor of a skyrise office building, two men stood in front of a very ornate desk as a projector screen was lowered from the ceiling. One of the men, an older gent with greying hair went back to sit down at his desk while the assistant, a younger short blonde man with a pinstripe suit, was on his laptop and ticking in a few things. Soon, the projector roared to life and Morris was looking back at them, wearing his normal uniform suit and bowtie.
"Good Morning! It's so nice to see you again sir!" he said, his tone brimming with energy. Both men looked at each other and then back at Morris.
"Yes, good morning." The older gentleman said, clearing his throat. Clearly, he was not ready for that kind of response. "How are you feeling this morning?" Morris put on his best smile and straightened himself up in his chair.
"Fantastic sir! I'm ready for another day at the store. And I must say, I really am enjoying myself there!" The two men paused again as they looked at each other and then looked back at Morris. The older man nodded, and his assistant started to type something again.
"Right…and how is the store? And your employees?" Morris fixed his hair and again put on his best smile.
"Oh the store is great! Always looking pristine and in top form. The villagers are loyal Joja customers of course. As for the employees, they do their fill. They tend to not want to talk while working, but they do the job right. And in the end, isn't that all they need to do?" The man behind the desk nodded as the man with the laptop started to type. There was a long silence as the older man started to talk.
"And the mayor…is he cooperating with you on the acquisition of that old building? The one for the extra storage facility we have planned." Morris' chipper demeanor and enthusiasm quickly changed to one of nervousness. He adjusted his bowtie and cleared his throat.
"We're…in talks…" he said back, and the man behind the desk raised his eyebrow.
"And what does that mean, exactly?" Morris tried the gulp down the lump that was in his throat.
"W-well…the Mayor is reluctant to sell over the old building to us. Apparently, it was something of great importance in the past. I've tried to persuade him and even tried pressuring him into selling the building, but he's not budging. We have a deal going but-" The older man started to write something on a piece of paper as he spoke over Morris.
"Then double the price." He retorted back. "I believe I have reiterated how important that location is. Stardew Valley is small, yes, but the resources there are vast. Joja will want to utilize everything they have to offer. I hope I am making myself clear. Failure is not an option." Morris was trembling as he looked back at the executive.
"Y-yes sir! I'll schedule a meeting with the Mayor today!" the executive nodded and glared at him slightly.
"As you should. That concludes our evaluation. Do you have further questions?" Morris shook his head. "Alright then. Have a good remainder of your day." And with that, the connection was terminated.
"Do you think he will be able to do it?" the older man chuckled as he looked out the window.
"Let's just say my faith is waning…however…maybe he will surprise us…remember…a caged animal becomes desperate. We will see soon enough…what do you think?" the younger man put the laptop down.
"I deal in facts, sir. When I see it, I'll believe he's able to do this." The older man laughed as he studied the evaluation on the laptop. Morris' scores were all around high…but there were pages of notes reflecting flaws and weaknesses. The older man got up and poured himself some coffee from a pot nearby.
"And that employee? The one who was so called...abused. What happened to them?" the younger man started to scroll through his files.
"She's been suspended sir. Her benefits are on hold and she was compensated for her work before she was let go. I doubt we will hear from her again." the older man paused as steam rose from his cup. He pondered this information for a moment.
"What was her name again?" the younger man turned the laptop around to show an older picture of a familiar white haired farmer.
"Evelyn Turner. Lived in Zuzu until recently...no one has heard or seen her in a few weeks. It's like she dropped off the face of the world…" the older man nodded and sipped his coffee. He closed his eyes as he tried to take in the information.
"Yes right. Now…who's next on the list?"
Morris looked horrified at the screen of his computer in front of him. He had broken out in a cold sweat and felt that it was hard to breathe. He got up and started pacing around his condo, loosening his bowtie.
"That doddering old fool. He doesn't understand what's at stake here. I need that building…and I need it now. Double the price…he can't say no if I double the price!" he mumbled as he continued to pace. "Keeping the customers in is easy. The competition is nonexistent with the prices and selection we carry. That pest has no way of comparing with me…everything is going great except I need that old shed of a building!" he let out a sigh and went to his kitchenette. He took a mug from his cabinet and poured himself a calm of coffee from an expensive looking gooseneck kettle. He took a big gulp, but then recoiled as it was hot and burned his tongue.
"Shit!" he sputtered and coughed a bit, some of the coffee spilling onto the floor. He huffed as he cleaned up, keeping everything organized and clean as he went. "I'm not gonna give up. I can't give up…" he flipped on his smart phone and saw an email pop up on his screen. He rolled his eyes and looked at it. "Investigation Statement Required…bullshit." Without a second thought, he deleted it. His hand traveled up to his cheek as his face turned to a scowl as he looked at his inbox. "That bitch…no one talks to ME like that…NO ONE!" he yelled out and started to tick in a number. He tried to calm himself down as the phone started to ring. After a few rings, there was another voice on the end.
"This is Mayor Lewis of Pelican Town, what can I do for you?" Morris cleared his throat.
"Hi Mr. Lewis, this is Morris from the intown Jojamart. I'm wondering if we can set up a meeting?" he said, putting on his best customer service voice. It was time to make sure to seal the deal once and for all.
It was an early morning the next morning. Helping with the dismantling of everything took a lot of time and effort, and by the time Eve got home that night she didn't even remember crawling into bed. The rooster cawed and with a groan, she emerged out from under the covers. She sighed and started to stretch as Miso was also roaming around the room. He pawed at his food dish and let out a little coo to his owner. Eve looked over and sighed.
"You're always hungry…" she mumbled with a smile, and finally got up. She took a can of food from her mini fridge and opened it up. Miso was padding around and pacing before looking up and letting out another meow. "Yeah yeah hold on will yah? So needy." She joked at the cat as she scraped the food into his bowl. "What, you wasting away? Haven't fed you in hours and you're gonna die huh? Poor baby poor baby." She laughed at herself as Miso was face first in the food. After that, she jumped into the shower and went to get her clothes. As she reached out for them, she suddenly remembered the comment from yesterday.
"If it weren't for those horrendous clothes you might actually be pretty." Those words gave her pause. Eve dwelled on them as she moved her hand back, just staring at the garments.
"…I like these clothes…they aren't that bad…are they?" she muttered to herself. "And it's not like I have…many outfits right now. There just isn't enough room…" She let out a sigh and put the clothes on before going to inspect herself in the mirror. Her bags were most certainly gone, and she was looking better than yesterday. Then again:
"Wait…are you even wearing any makeup? No wonder. I thought it was a brand I didn't know about for a second. Maybe I can let you borrow some of my clothes because yours smell like grass and dirt. Though they may not fit you because well…" she sighed and brushed her hair. She didn't wear a lot of makeup in the past, and she wasn't about to start when her job was farming. She had built up her confidence for weeks, and now it felt like she was back to square one. She shook her head and looked angry.
"By Yoba, nothing is wrong. What was her problem anyway?! I look fine…right?" that anger was quickly replaced by a look of doubt. Sure, there were things that could improve, her skin care routine, a varied wardrobe, maybe a little make up…but she couldn't worry about that right now when she was trying to take on the task of rebuilding the farm. She shook her head. "I'll…" she stopped when she heard a tree fall down in the yard out front. She walked to the door and looked out, seeing someone was in the yard and doing something. Eve got her pack and walked outside, shielding her eyes from the sun as it was brightly shining over the horizon. She walked down her stairs and saw someone chopping the wood.
"Who…" she mumbled before getting a closer look. "Alex?"
Alex turned to face her as he wiped the sweat off his brow. He looked up and waved at her with a smile.
"Hey! Morning Eve!" he called. "Thought I'd drop in and help you out a little bit. Like an exercise routine type of thing!" Eve looked a bit confused but nodded as she got closer. She saw that Alex had certainly been busy. Two trees were down and were being chopped up for wood.
"Well…thank you…I guess. But you really didn't have to do that. I would have gotten to them eventually…" Alex shrugged as he kept chopping up the wood.
"Well I was just passing by and thought, why not? I mean, this is a lot of hard work and you have your condition, right? So I thought I'd help." Eve crossed her arms over her chest.
"Okay, first off Alex…my farm isn't exactly a place to 'pass by'. I'm one of the furthest properties away from the town, right next to Marnie and Robin, I think…and then secondly, I can manage on my own, even with my condition. I don't need to be coddled." Alex started to look flustered and rubbed the back of his neck.
"Ah…well…um…let me think…" Eve just raised an eyebrow as Alex kept stalling. The athlete then sighed and shook his head. "Alright fine…I came over because I felt bad…" Eve's expression changed almost instantly from doubt to concern.
"Bad? Why?" Alex looked up at her, putting the axe against a tree.
"Well…how Hailey talked to you yesterday. That wasn't right. I mean, she's not normally…like that, you know? She's a little self-centered, but…I've never seen her treat someone like how she treated you…" Eve just paused and thought back to that moment again. Those insecure feelings came right back again after she'd just dealt with them. Her hands curled into fists.
"N-no…I understand…I mean…I know I don't look my best right now but it's not something I'm really concerned with. At least…not right now…" Alex sighed and shook his head.
"Still! It was uncalled for…and I'm sorry I didn't stop it sooner…that's why I'm here. I wanted to help out as an apology. Okay?" Eve looked at him and just smiled. That was a really sweet thing for him to do. She smiled at him brightly and put out her hand.
"Thank you…you really didn't have to go through the trouble…but I appreciate it all the same. Don't worry, I'm not mad at you." Alex smiled back and the two friends high-fived.
"No problem. I found that I kind of like doing this kind of thing. So if you need help, give me a holler." Eve gave a thumbs up.
"You got it. So…you can just finish up with this tree and move the wood over there? I need to get cracking on my crops." Alex nodded and gave a thumbs up back.
"Alright boss!" he said and took the axe in his hands and again started to chop. Eve walked back to the crops with a smile on her face.
"I've never had someone do something like that for me…" she sighed and her face got a little red as a blush graced her cheeks. "I'm glad my first impression of Alex was wrong…he's a really nice guy…"
After all the planting and watering, Eve wiped her brow as Alex brought over the rest of the wood. He started to stretch as he put the axe against the house.
"That's a workout for sure. But it's a good sore I'll be feeling. The plants okay?" Eve nodded as she watered the last of the strawberry seeds, saving one bag in a chest.
"Yup, I'm just about done here. Thanks again for your help." He gave a thumbs up back and walked back toward town and out of sight. Eve was finishing cleaning up before going to town herself. She wanted to check in with Harvey after all about the counselor options that were possible. She looked into her mailbox and saw there was a letter for her.
"MISSING: I lost my favorite axe! If you find it, please return ASAP. I'm having a tough time without it. There's 250g in it for whoever finds the thing. From Robin…huh." Eve put the notice in her bag. "I'll have to keep an eye out for it." She mumbled before packing her fishing rod and pickaxe. She started on the road toward town, taking in the air. It was another beautiful warm day…and everyday seemed different then the day before. She'd nearly been in town for a month and it was still just as great as it was the first day. Even the walk to town seemed different. She saw a squirrel scurry up a tree and drop an acorn behind. Eve picked it up and inspected it before putting it in her bag. It might be useful, sometime down the line.
When she got into town, the square looked pretty quiet. It was still kind of early, but it never seemed this barren. Maybe people were still asleep because of the festival. Gus was outside of the saloon with a book in his hand, licking his thumb as he turned the page. Upon closer inspection…it was a recipe book. Soon, George wheeled himself out, going to his mailbox. He tried to sit up, trying to grab the mail that was inside. A clear expression of discomfort and frustration graced the old man's face as he was having a hard time. Eve got closer, but decided to look like she was minding her own business as she was listening in. He let out a large sigh.
"How am I ever going to reach that letter in the back?" he huffed to himself, trying again to reach the letter that was stuck in the back of the box. "I don't want to wake up Evelyn yet…but I can't reach the darn thing…" It was then that Penny, who was leaving from her trailer, noticed George having a hard time and approached him.
"Here, let me help you get it Mr. Muller!" She said with a smile and went toward the box. George moved as he was moved aside by Penny as she reached into the box and retrieved the letter for the old man. She then gave to him. "Here you go!" George grumbled as he snatched the letter out of Penny's hands.
"Hmph, I could've done it myself! And I can certainly move around on my own! How feeble do you think I am?" Eve took this time to finally walk over, seeing that Penny looked down for trying to help.
"Hey." Eve called out, making Penny and George look at her. George let out a grumble.
"Eve? You were watching me?" he asked and Eve nodded. She looked over at Penny.
"I was…You did a kind thing there, Penny." She said with a smile. Penny looked at Eve and looked to the side, a little embarrassed.
"Thank you Eve…" she said and then looked down. "I just wish George wasn't so upset…I was only trying to help…" George then turned his chair a little and let out a long sigh. His angry expression turned into one of regret.
"No…no…I'm the sorry one miss. I shouldn't have gotten so angry." He turned the chair to Penny, who in kind faced him. "It WAS actually very kind of you to help an old man like me out. Thank you…" Penny shook her head.
"That's okay Mr. Muller. I understand. You don't have to apologize." The old man nodded.
"Well…thank you again anyway…" he then wheeled himself to the door of his home and went inside briskly. Penny looked a little awkward as she watched him go. Her expression then got solemn as she looked at Eve.
"It must be difficult to grow old…" she said in a quiet tone. Eve crossed her arms over her chest and nodded.
"Maybe…but it's just another part of life…you know? It's why we should respect our elders." Penny nodded at her.
"That's nice of you to say…I totally agree with you. We should treat our elders with the same respect we hope to receive ourselves someday." Eve smiled at that.
"I hear that. I just hope George can understand that too, yah know?" Penny nodded and then looked at her watch. She paused as she started to walk away. She then turned back.
"Sorry, I need to get going now. The kids' schooling is starting soon. It was interesting talking to you Eve. See you around." Eve waved as Penny went on her way. She looked at the house again. Wasn't Alex home, or was he still exercising? George really could have asked Alex for a little help too. Eve shook those thoughts out of her head.
"I can't get into everyone's business…I need to focus on me right now…" she muttered as she turned and made her way to the clinic. She opened the door and was instantly greeted by Maru.
"Hey Eve! Welcome! Are you feeling okay?" Eve smiled and waved as she signed in on the clipboard.
"Oh yeah, I'm okay. I just wanted to ask Harvey something, remember?" Maru snapped her fingers and got up.
"I totally forgot! Hold on, I'll be right back." She said as she went through the doors into the clinic. Eve had barely sat down in the seats before Maru came back. "He can see you immediately. Please follow me." Eve chuckled as she got up again and followed Maru into the back. Harvey was working on restocking the cabinets as the girls walked in.
"Thanks Maru…could you restock the other room for me? We just got a shipment and I want to make sure we have everything…" Maru nodded and gave Eve a quick thumbs up as she went off. Eve sat down in the chair and waited for Harvey to be done with the stocking. "Just give me one moment Eve, and I'll be right with you…" Eve nodded as she started to nervously look around the room. It didn't matter how many times she had been to a doctor's office…it always made her nervous. She could feel her heart start to beat faster, which caused a bit of mild discomfort. Though nothing to really worry about. Soon, Harvey was off the floor and dusted himself off. He sat down in the wheeling chair and faced Eve. "Right, thank you for waiting. I heard from Maru you had something you wished to speak with me about?" Eve nodded and paused for a moment. Those feelings were all coming back to her once again, and the memory started to flash in her head. The photo, that silence, the knife. Each moment was more vivid than the last. She shook her head, knowing this was the first step to getting some help.
"What I'm about to say cannot leave this room Harvey…please…" she said with a very serious tone. It was clear that she wanted this to be taken seriously. "I need your help…"
Eve recounted to Harvey the repressed nightmare that was a catalyst to her arrival in Stardew Valley. Harvey was taking down notes, not for his own record, but to remember what to say to a professional later. At the end of the story, Eve was again in tears. Harvey was quiet as he allowed her a moment to cry.
"Well…I have to say that this is quite a story…I don't think I've heard anything that would come close, but I will say this…" he smiled at her. "I will say that you're much stronger than I thought you were…" Eve paused and looked up at Harvey, tears running down her cheeks.
"What? But...I fell into despair and...and I…I nearly..." Harvey shook his head as Eve was choking on her words.
"Admitting to this and asking for help…it's a very difficult thing to do. You have no idea how many people could really learn from your example. That being said…I'm not a certified therapist…and unfortunately, there isn't one here in Stardew Valley. I know a few good ones in Zuzu City, but it's most likely that you would be paying out of pocket to see one. I hope you can understand." Eve nodded as she wiped her eyes.
"I figured as much…but I know it's worth it…I'm willing to go through with it." Harvey smiled back and took out his phone.
"I'm going to make a few calls…I think there is someone who you will really resonate with…I met her at a medical conference in Zuzu a few years ago. Could I have your phone number to pass along to her?" Eve nodded and gave him her number.
"This isn't a ploy to just be getting my number right?" Harvey blushed and shook his head hard.
"Absolutely not! This is purely for health reasons I assure you!" Eve laughed hard.
"I'm joking Harvey, I know!" she said as she was still laughing and crying at the same time now. There were a lot of emotions going on. From sadness to joy…it was a cycle. Harvey blushed as he was handing her a card. He cleared his throat.
"Anyway…here is the number. I'll have her call you and you two can set something up. I'm sure that she will give you a good price on the sessions too, considering you don't have insurance right now." Eve nodded as she took the card. It was one of Harvey's business cards with the information on the back. She put it in her bag and got up.
"Thank you Harvey. I'll wait for the call." Harvey smiled.
"Well…and this is just for my peace of mind. You're not having those thoughts right now, are you?" Eve shook her head. "Alright good. I need to make sure. And is there anything else I can help you with? How's your chest?" Eve smiled brightly at him.
"The attacks have been happening less and less actually. I'm able to feel one coming before it really gets bad, so I take a break and let it pass by. I have to say, it's been feeling a lot better since I arrived, despite all the physical work I'm doing." Harvey nodded and made a note of it. He then smiled back.
"Well I'm glad to hear it. Please come back if there is anything else I can do for you okay? Don't hesitate to seek me out even if the clinic is closed. I live just upstairs, so you're welcome to knock." Eve nodded and went to the door.
"Thanks Harvey. Have a good rest of your day!" she said and left the room. Harvey waved at her from his seat.
"You too Eve!" he called. He then dialed on his phone a number and waited for a few rings. "Hello? Hi, I'm not sure if you remember me, but this is Harvey from…oh…you do remember! Oh good! Yes I'm fine, but there is someone who I think needs a good counselor. Let me tell you the situation…"
Eve made her way into the community center and rushed over to the large walk in cupboard that was next to the kitchen. She knelt down to the scroll and the Junimos were curiously watching her take some things out of her bag.
"This is gonna put a dent in my savings, but I have everything now…okay…" she held out the parsnip and watched as the light engulfed it and brought it into the scroll. She watched as it appeared as a picture and the box's frame turned gold. She smiled as did the same to the rest of the crops. "Okay…one potato…one green bean…and finally one cauliflower…" Soon, the scroll began to glow and another green bundle popped out of the scroll. A Junimo grabbed it and lifted it easily over its head with their noodle arms and walked it over to the little hut in the room. And once again, Eve's bag felt heavier as she found some fertilizer that she didn't have before in her bag. She took out a bag and examined it.
"Speed-Gro? Never heard of this kind…maybe Pierre would know?" she asked herself and then heard the wind howling through the building. She stepped out of the room for a moment and found that another scroll had appeared over the broken and worn down fish tank. Eve walked over to the new scroll and knelt to get a closer look. Eve just sighed as she looked and saw all the fish the little Junimos were requesting this time. "I bet Willy can help me out with this one." She mumbled. One of the Junimos carefully approached and let out a little sound. Eve turned and held out her hand, letting the creature climb onto her palm. "What is it little one?" she asked.
"-. ….. ….?" It cocked its head and made another noise, looking at the bag. Eve chuckled and made her way back to the cupboard.
"I guess you knew I wasn't done huh?" she said and again knelt onto the floor. She took out five very pristine and good quality parsnips. "I have these. I started using my own fertilizer on just about everything now…and seeing how these grow quick…this was an easy one…" she held the bunch of parsnips over the scroll and watched them all get absorbed into the parchment. She was about to get up and go when she heard something. The Junimos who had appeared all got startled and disappeared. The one in Eve's hand completely vanished as well. She looked toward the door.
"What was that?" she asked herself and hid herself against the wall, pulling her bag with her. She continued to listen.
"I have to thank you for meeting with me on such short notice. I guess you could tell this was an urgent matter, Mayor Lewis." One of the voices said with a slightly snide tone. Eve's skin immediately started to crawl. She knew that voice…it was a voice that would forever stay with her.
"Morris? What is he doing here?" she asked herself, hearing the door open and the footsteps as the two men entered the building.
"Well, I didn't want to keep you waiting long, since you said this was urgent. Though I don't quite understand why you wanted to talk here." Morris started to look around the building as if he was inspecting it. He was holding a black briefcase with a gold lock on it, keeping it close to his side. Eve could see some of the Junimos reappear. It was clear to her they were afraid of Morris, trying to avoid him and shaking if he got near. Eve peered around the corner and felt bad for the little guys. This was their home, or, at least it was for the time being. They opened their arms to her…but not to him. To them, Morris was just an intruder. Eve took a breath and dashed to the crafts room, where she could see them better through a home in the wall.
"Oh, well...I wanted to ensure that our conversation would be private. And no one really comes into the building right?" there was a laugh. Lewis kind of shrugged a little.
"So, what is it that you wanted to talk about?" Mayor Lewis asked. A smile crept onto Morris' face as he turned to Lewis.
"I had a conversation with my employers with Joja today, and they wanted to speed the process of procuring this place a bit faster." Lewis looked uncomfortable and crossed his arms over his chest.
"I thought we had an agreement. If a majority of the Stardew Valley villagers bought Joja memberships, then I would let Joja have the building. You need to understand that this place-" Morris waved off Lewis and started to talk over him.
"Yes yes, this place was a very important place in the past and holds a lot of sentimental value, I understand that. But I am looking toward the future Mayor. I don't see this place being anything more than a waste of space for years to come unless we act now. After you sell the building, you wouldn't even need to worry! We'd clean the place up and convert it to a functional storage and shipping area for Joja. You'd make a pretty penny for your town and you could use that money to expand the town, make it grow! More people would move in, and of course would come to shop at Joja. Then you collect your cut each month from us, and the town would flourish!" Lewis started to fidget a little, as if in deep thought. Eve could feel her hands ball into fists unconsciously. Just listening to his voice made her blood boil.
"That does sound like a good plan…" he mumbled, nearly making Eve gasp from behind. Morris nodded and smiled.
"It's a win win for the both of us! And did you forget that we would aid in other projects? With town donations, we could fix up the old bridge, get the bus working again, even fix that old greenhouse on that rickety overgrown farm! Together we could rebuild this town and make it something better, greater! Isn't that what you want, Mayor? For this town to be successful?" Lewis paused, looking away. "And we can do that…with Jojas help. I'm willing to help you Lewis. All you have to do is sign a piece of paper, and I will do everything else." Lewis bit one of his nails as he looked around. It was clear that there was discourse in his mind. On one hand, expanding the town and helping it flourish sounded wonderful and would be a great platform for the next election. But on the other hand…he had hoped to rebuild the community center. To make it the way it used to be. To make the town the way it used to be in the past. He let out a sigh.
"Morris…I need to give this some serious thought. For now…our current agreement…" Morris' expression then got extremely serious.
"Double." He said bluntly. Lewis looked shocked, almost confused.
"Come again?" he asked. Morris took off his spectacles and started to clean them with a cloth.
"I'll double the offer. The amount of money on that contract…I'll double it. If you sell this building to me right now." Lewis had a moment of surprise on his face. Eve grit her teeth. Knowing Morris, he would throw any amount of money at a problem until it went away. He was always like that, using his money and power to do just about anything he wanted. He did that with her and possibly others back in Zuzu…and he was STILL rewarded with that promotion. She wanted to scream…but she held back. It made her sick just listening to him. She kept eavesdropping as they continued to talk.
"My…" Lewis started. "That's quite an offer…if my memory serves me right…that would be…" Morris grinned.
"Of course…and it would be enough to make this town the best it can be. And you can do that right now. I've already gotten the okay from my boss. What do you say?" he asked. Lewis looked back at the floor for a moment and then back at Morris.
"I want to think about this more. This is so sudden and-" Morris cut him off again.
"What is there to think about?! I'm prepared to drop a ton of gold for this building!" he almost started to yell at Lewis. "It's far more than what this building is worth, even my initial offer was generous, and you know that! I want to settle this now…I have a new contract prepared…" he put the briefcase down and opened it, revealing a manilla envelope. He flipped the cover back and there was a pretty official looking contract with the Joja seal at the top. He took a pen from his pocket protector and clicked the top. Handing both to Lewis. "Now…just sign the contract…and I'll do the rest…" Lewis looked distraught, looking from at the contract to the floor and then back to the briefcase. After a few moments of thinking, there was a resolved look in his eyes. Lewis let out a breath as he slowly started to reach for the pen.
"No-!" Eve let out a gasp before covering her mouth. Both men recoiled and started to look around. Morris quickly closed the briefcase and glared at Lewis.
"What was that voice? I thought I made it clear this was a confidential issue Mayor." Morris said as he was glaring daggers at Lewis. Mayor Lewis, on the other hand, went into a panic and started to look around.
"You have my word that I didn't tell anyone about this!" he said, but Morris shook his head.
"Bullshit! Where are they hiding, huh?" Morris then started to look around, going toward the cupboard and crafting room. Eve's eyes went huge as he quickly looked around for somewhere to hide. She started to squeeze herself behind the old shelf just as Morris stormed in. He started to tear the place apart looking, knocking over every piece of furniture he could find. Eve's breathing started to get rapid as it was only a matter of time until she was found. She looked around frantic, looking for anything to get her out of his tight space.
"Come on Eve…think…THINK!" she mumbled. She started to scan the nearby floor but only found dirt, old knick knacks and some bolts of dusty cloth. She grit her teeth as she spotted a rock not too far from the shelf. She waited for a moment as she felt Morris was near her until her moment came. "NOW!" she whispered and grabbed the rock. Getting back into her space, she grasped it tightly and looked toward the kitchen. It was a long shot, but that was the only chance she had of escaping without being caught. At that angle, she might be able to lob it up the small flight of stairs and onto the tile.
"I only have one shot…women's Zuzu softball league, don't fail me now…" she thought as she tossed the rock into the kitchen and onto its floor. Morris immediately heard it fall and dashed over.
"There you are!" he yelled, and the sound of Lewis' feet weren't far behind him. Eve jumped up the stairs to avoid the creaking and backed away slowly as the two men searched the kitchen. Eve started to move through the main lobby toward the door, but found it was closed! It would surely make a noise if she opened it. Finding another rock along the way, Eve went to the office and walked into the doorway. "Sorry Lewis…" she muttered as she chucked the rock into the broken window. The glass immediately shattered, and the shards went everywhere on the floor. Eve made herself scarce and quickly hid herself in the safe of that room that was cracked open. With how big it was, someone like her could fit easily.
"Over here!" Lewis called as both ran into the office. Eve closed the safe door as much as she could, leaving it open by a crack. She was in almost utter darkness save for a sliver of light. She heard the footsteps as both men were now looking into the office and surely seeing the shattered glass. Morris let out a frustrated growl as he was just about done with this situation. Lewis, on the other hand, was sweating and looking extremely distraught.
"Do you think they went outside?" Lewis asked. Morris quickly went over and looked outside, frantic to find this mysterious spy.
"It's possible. You go outside, and I'll check this room!" Lewis nodded and ran out of the building. Morris immediately approached the safe and started to yank it open. Eve hid in the back, cowering in fear. She didn't want to be confronted by Morris like this. She didn't want him to know she was here. He'd go back to his normal, raunchy, crude self…and it would possibly be worse than before. The shadow inside the safe got smaller and smaller as it slowly opened. Eve's heart was pumping, it was getting hard to breathe. She could feel an attack coming on.
"No…no not now! I can't…I-!" But suddenly, it stopped. Despite Morris grunting to get the metal door open, it wouldn't budge any further. He even tried to fit his body through, but he couldn't. Eve looked and covered her mouth. The Junimos were getting in the way and holding the door closed as best they could. Some of them made their chirping noise while others just piled onto the door.
"-. …. …. …! -. …. … … … .. …. ….." Eve brought her legs in and curled herself up as small as she could to avoid being seen, but soon she heard a yell from Morris as he seemed to have given up.
"Stupid vault!" he yelled and kicked it with his foot before storming out of the room. Eve didn't dare move until she knew he was out of the room. She paused for a moment before hearing something from the outside.
"HEY, I SAW THAT!" it was Lewis' voice from the outside, coming from the window that had been shattered. Morris rushed outside, flinging the front down open and running outside. Eve quickly got up.
"This is my chance!" she said and pushed her body against the door, opening it. The Junimos, of course, helped her with the door. Once it was open just enough, she rushed to the front door of the community center. After quickly making sure no one was around, Eve rushed out of the building and started to jog back to town. Once there, she started to walk as if acting like she was on her way home or something. She was safe…and she needed to calm down. She clutched her chest as her heart was going a mile a minute. She was starting to see spots in her vision. She grunted as she looked around the town. The closest building that was open for business was the saloon. "I'll rest there…" she mumbled as she made her way inside.
As always, the saloon was bustling with the evening regulars. Time flew by and the day was almost over, thanks to the events in the community center. Eve casually approached the bar and sat down, taking in breaths very slowly. Gus was talking to Emily as he was finishing something up. He noticed Eve and turned to her, giving a smile.
"Hi there Eve, I'll take your order in a few moments." He said as he started to finish up. Eve nodded and smiled.
"Oh that's fine. Please…take your time." She said as she hunched over a little. She felt sick at this point, feeling that she was going to blow chunks at any moment. Marnie walked over and smiled at them, giving her a pat on the back.
"Hey there farmer! How's life been treating yah today?" she asked. Eve looked over at Marnie with a very forced smile.
"I'm…a little green around the gills right now…but…okay…" Marnie immediately looked concerned as she examined Eve's face.
"No fooling…you look like yer going to hurl. Let me get you to the bathroom hun…" Eve nodded and allowed Marnie to help her. They both walked through the flapping doors and to the back, where the tiny bathrooms were. Once inside, Eve couldn't hold it. She dashed in and dropped against the toilet as she puked out a mixture of bodily fluids. Marnie looked away but was kind enough to hold her hair back as Eve's sickness continued. After a few moments and some water later, Eve was against the wall with a paper towel on her forehead while Marnie sat next to her.
"Feeling better?" Marnie asked. Eve nodded and let out a little cough, feeling her throat was a little prickly now due to what happened.
"Yeah…I'm sorry about that…you didn't really need to see all that huh?" Marnie chuckled.
"Well, I'm pretty used to this kind of thing. Taking care of a person after they've gotten sick I mean. It happens to me more than I'd like to admit." Eve looked concerned about that, but she wasn't going to ask about it.
"Well…it happens a lot to me too. I have a weak heart, so if I overdo it my body reacts in different ways. Sometimes I get dizzy, sometimes this happens, and sometimes it's both…" Marnie handed her the glass of water she was holding and Eve took a sip from it. It didn't taste good, but it sure did feel good.
"Yikes, that sounds hard. So why farming then? I bet you have these attacks all the time." Eve sighed and smiled.
"Well…yes and no…" she started. "In the beginning I did…but over these last two weeks, they've been happening less and less due to physical labor. This time…I think it was stress." Marnie looked at her with a curious look.
"What's got you so stressed you'd have an attack like that?" Eve hesitated for a moment. Should she divulge what she heard to Marnie? But she was into selling that building the last time they talked. Maybe now…it would be different?
"Well…it's hard to explain…can you please keep a secret?" Marnie nodded, and Eve let out a sigh. "Well…I had some business in the old community center. It was just a little side project I'm working on…if you understand." Marnie chuckled and gave her a pat.
"Lewis mentioned that he showed you around. Rumor has it you've been going in and out of that building more than most. I'm guessing this little project is why?" Eve nodded and Marnie chuckled. "Thought so…anyway, continue…"
"While I was there, Mayor Lewis and a man from Joja named Morris walked in. I didn't want them to see me so I kinda…hid. And I overheard them talking a little bit…" she grit her teeth and looked at Marnie with a worried expression. "He was really pushing Lewis to sell the building…like, pushing really hard. I could tell Lewis was uncomfortable because he had a plan, but this guy was not backing down. It was like he was trying to force him to sell the building by any means necessary…it even sounded like he was threatening the Mayor." Marnie paused as she took in the story and started to ponder over this new information.
"He did say something about a plan…but if what you're saying is true and he's threatening Lewis…who knows what they could be up to." Eve nodded frantically.
"That's what I was thinking! They say it would be used for a storage facility…and he started to sprinkle in that if they worked together, the town could expand and prosper…but there was something about it that didn't sound right. I know Morris…I know he's not a good person…he's rotten and a manipulator…I don't know his plan but…it's not good." Marnie thought about this long and hard. Her gaze went to the tiled floor before going back to Eve.
"How do you know this...Morris guy?" Eve feared this question would come up, but she wasn't going to lie...not this time.
"I used to work for Joja...right before I came here. Morris was my superior and he...he would often hit on me...try and get me to date him. He'd say all sorts of belittling things...but I wasn't interested...I know the type of person he is truly...and he's not a good one. Whatever they want that building for...it's not for a good reason…" Eve curled up a little more as she remembered the incident as Marnie took a moment to think. She could see the discomfort...she wasn't lying. Marnie then just smiled.
"I'll have a talk to Lewis about this. If he's being threatened, then we need to have another course of action." Eve smiled at her.
"I think that's smart…but could you possibly not mention me at all? Please?" Marnie got up and reached a hand down for Eve to help her up.
"I'll try not to. This will be a secret between us for now. But I will have a conversation when things have calmed down. I'll only mention you if I absolutely have to…" Eve took the hand and the ladies both hugged each other.
"Thank you Marnie…thank you for helping me…" Marnie rubbed Eve's back a bit and then let her go.
"Hey no problem. You're one of us now aren't yah? Us Valley folk gotta stick together." Eve nodded and blushed a little bit. She was happy to be considered a 'valley folk'. The ladies then went back to the bar where Marnie went back to her table and Eve went to the bar with the water in her hand. She sat there lost in her thoughts. All that she heard…she had to do something about it. She didn't know what yet…but she would have to figure it out. Those bundles, the Junimos, and the community center were all part of the valley as well. Maybe…just maybe…it was the key to stopping whatever Joja was planning.
"Hello Eve! What a pleasant surprise!" Eve gasped as the voice pulled her out of her thoughts. Sitting right next to her was Elliot! Her face became flushed and she tried to adjust herself a bit.
"Hey Elliot…sorry I was kind of miles away." Elliot smiled and took a seat next to her.
"No trouble there! I was just stopping in to relax after an eight hour writing session. I tell you Eve, your wrist suffers quite a bit if you decide to do everything by hand." He rubbed his wrist a bit as he took a seat at the bar. "But it was invigorating…I feel like I've finally had a breakthrough! And I was really enjoying my time." Eve smiled at him and shook her head.
"I couldn't imagine writing for eight hours straight. You've got some extreme focus." Elliot smiled back.
"Yes well…let's just say the conversation we had yesterday motivated me quite a bit." Eve looked away, blushing as Elliot was trying to get Gus' attention. "Bartender! Two of your finest ales, please!" he called. Gus looked at him for a moment with almost a glare before going to the back and taking a bottle. He opened it; the cork popping sound was pretty loud in the not too crowded saloon. He poured the drink into two glasses before recorking it and walking over to Elliot. He put the glasses on the bar.
"There you go, sir. Will you be starting a tab tonight or-?" Elliot shook his head and put a little bag of coins on the counter. Gus took it and nodded before going about his business again. Eve looked at the whole exchange with a puzzled look. Gus seemed to know just about everyone in town, but Elliot was treated more like a stranger than a member of the town. And he'd been here longer than her. Eve was broken from her thoughts again as Elliot moved the glass over to her. Eve's rosy cheeks turned red as she looked at the glass and then Elliot. She slowly took the glass and examined it.
"Th-thank you…I can give you the money for this when my next harvest ships if that's-." Elliot shook his head and flashed a bright smile.
"Oh heavens no, this is a celebration! There is no need for you to pay me back. Please drink and enjoy!" Eve let out a breath. Normally she wouldn't drink…but she didn't want to be rude in front of Elliot or his kind gesture.
"Thank you…" she mumbled and she put the drink to her lips to sip.
"Wait." Elliot said as he took hold of his glass. Eve looked a little confused as he lifted the glass a little bit. "I propose a toast! To…" he paused for a moment as if he were thinking of what to say. Eve chuckled as she raised her glass up.
"To our friendship!" she called out and tapped the rim of his glass with hers. Elliot chuckled and nodded, obviously approving of the call.
"That's a great idea! Here's to us!" he said and then the pair both drank the glasses down. It didn't take long before both of them felt the effects of the finest ale they had consumed. Elliot put the glass down and let out a little hiccup.
"…Strong stuff…" he muttered as he put one arm on the bar to support himself. Eve started to chuckle and then laugh.
"You're such a lightweight!" she laughed, trying to cover her mouth to hold back the laughter. Elliot grinned as he started to laugh too.
"You are too!" he said back, and both ended up just laughing at each other. Though it wasn't maliceful or rude. It was lighthearted, fun…warm. Elliot grinned as he ordered another drink for himself as well as a water and Eve did the same.
"So, have you finally gotten a genre for your book?" Eve asked and Elliot grinned and nodded.
"I in fact have. And I've been going through many titles of the book. I've narrowed down the candidates so at this point it will be what fits best." He took another sip of his drink and Eve did the same. She felt lighter…a little wobbly in the legs but cheerful. Though she made sure her vision wasn't getting blurry and she could still make out details around her. She didn't want to get too out there. She started to trace her finger around the rim of the glass.
"Well, are you going to give me a sneak peak on it?" Eve asked, looking almost shyly at Elliot. His face changed color as he paused, and then immediately took another sip of his drink before answering.
"I want it to be a surprise. Once it's all finished then you'll know." Eve sighed, but then smiled at him.
"Alright fine you win. I'll be patient." Elliot smiled back and the conversation between them continued. They talked about books they liked, places they had visited, daily life. In her life, Eve hadn't really had many guy friends that she could talk to…so it was nice that Elliot was being so nice to her. After a few hours of chatting, the pair left the saloon together. Although they were a little wobbly, they were both laughing as they walked.
"I'll walk you home." He said and the two started to walk across the square. At first, both were quiet and just enjoying the air and the silence. But then Eve thought of something.
"So…you're also kind of new to town, right?" she asked. Elliot looked back and nodded at her.
"That's right. I moved here about a year ago. Why?" Eve fiddled with the strap of her bag as she was trying to form her question.
"Why here? Of all places to move to…you moved into a shack in a small town by the beach. And I'm not judging your choice at all. Because if you didn't move here…we wouldn't have met and…well…I really enjoy talking to you, you know?" She looked away after saying that. Elliot paused and thought about it for a moment before smiling.
"This town is something special. I wasn't really looking for anything special when I first went out on my own…and I certainly didn't think I'd remain here for as long as I have, but I enjoy this place…and I would be lost if I did not come here. I know that I keep mostly to myself…only engaging with the people when I have to…but I still love this place." Eve gave him a bright smile.
"You should try and talk to the people more. I think you'll find that they surprise you with their personalities and how genuine they are as people. I know from experience…" Eve let out a sigh. "I was…reclusive…in the city. I barely talked to anyone…kept to myself…only really trusted myself. That way, I knew that if I got hurt, it was my fault for being stupid. I was forced to interact with…less than savory people…and because I was afraid of my physical limitations…it played on my emotional state a lot…but here? In Stardew Valley, I feel like I don't need to hide anymore…I can be myself." Eve blushed a little bit, embarrassed about the next part. "Though…I had to find myself first…I'm still looking for who I really am…but I know now that I'm on the right path. Being on the farm and being here…this is where I'm meant to be…and I'm going to protect this place…" Elliot put a hand on Eve's shoulder.
"I think I can provide a little additional insight." He stopped at the gates of the farm. "You're a remarkable, sensitive, and caring young woman, whose drive rivals those in great seats of power. Your passion for your work and life push past any limitation you have…and how much you care shines through. You're more than just a stunning visage, so much more. And I hope that people can see that in you." Eve was looking at him with wide eyes and her body was almost rigid.
"You…think I'm stunning?" she asked. The words from yesterday played in the back of her mind again, but Elliot's words played over them. "Like…I'm pretty?" Elliot paused as he realized what he said. He nodded as a red color graced his cheeks.
"Well…yes, I do think so. I wouldn't know why anyone would think otherwise." Eve started to play with the long white locks of hair, a little nervous and embarrassed.
"I uh…I guess I never really thought of myself as…pretty…or stunning. Those kinds of thoughts never really crossed my mind…until recently…" Elliot shook his head as he opened the gate for her.
"Well you certainly shouldn't be selling yourself short. Have some confidence in yourself, Ms. Eve." Eve smiled and nodded as she walked through the gates. Miso was meowing at the door of the cabin, obviously wanting to be let in. Eve turned to Elliot and smiled at him.
"I had a really nice time tonight…it was unexpected but…I had fun. Thanks for making my evening interesting Elliot…" Elliot chuckled and gave a graceful bow. Though he had to readjust his footing due to him being slightly uncoordinated.
"Always a pleasure Eve. Let's try and do this again sometime." Eve blushed a little bit and nodded back at him.
"Alright…it's a date." She said and stepped a little closer to him. She put her arms around him and hugged the author in an embrace. Elliot was a bit surprised for a moment, but soon returned the hug back. It felt nice…warm…comforting…but Eve didn't want to overstay her welcome. She let him go and stepped back. "Well…good night!" she turned on her heel and started to walk toward her house. Elliot waved and turned around as well.
"Good night!" he called back and Eve entered her home with Miso at her heels. She went and sat on her bed with a goofy smile on her face. Her heart was beating so fast, but it wasn't hurting or anything. She felt amazing. She looked at Miso and started to pet him as he settled at her feet.
"Oh Miso…I don't know but…I really like being around him…" she mumbled to him. "He's always so much fun…he's kind…he thinks I'm pretty…though maybe that was the drinks talking…but it was nice to hear." She chuckled and flopped back on her bed. "Confidence…maybe…I'll give it a try…Joyce will freak if I tell her…" she smiled and let out a yawn. She turned on the news to listen to the weather as she got ready for bed. Another rainy day was coming up. As she settled down, she thought back to the scene at the community center. What Morris was trying to do…whatever it was…she was going to stop it.
"Hopefully Marnie can buy me some time…" she said to herself. "I need to focus on unlocking the secrets of the community center…and quick…" she laid down in bed and let out another yawn. "I'll do it…I'm gonna do it…I'll…"
And another day came to an end.