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The day has come to an end, but you’re not yet exhausted. Three weeks have passed by, and you are getting accustomed to farm labor. The profit that the parsnips and potatoes generate is modest but way too modest to your liking. You glanced at your tool stand, and the bamboo rod from Willy caught your attention. Something clicked on your mind, like a metaphorical incandescent bulb lighting up. With excitement, you grabbed your backpack and bamboo rod and raced to the beach.
The cool spring breeze peacefully billows, spreading petals in the night, touching your cool skin whilst running towards the beach. The light from the crescent moon makes the water sparkle, reminding you of the picturesque Lupini paintings that you saw in an art gallery at Zuzu City.
And then, someone caught your eye. Long, red hair being gusted by the night zephyr sparkling amid the dim moonlight. Crimson coat flapping in the wind. You could only see the person’s back, who seems to be intently watching the waves. And then, the person turned around…
…and you can’t help but stare with wide eyes, your mouth gaping in amazement… for he is an epitome of beauty, like a god sent by the heavens to dwell among mere mortals. His jet-black eyes are like the starless night sky. For a moment, you swear that they flashed red… but maybe it’s just your tired mind playing tricks on you. A smile graced his thin lips, a gentle voice greeting you.
“Good evening. You must be the new farmer that sparked many a conversation. I am Elliot. I live in that little cabin over there.”
He went closer as he bowed reverently.
“It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Y/N.”
You willed your voice to be unstuck from your throat, your whole being struck by the beautiful man in front of you.
“The pleasure’s all mine, Elliot.”
His sparkly eyes scrutinized you, a slight frown knitting his perfectly curved eyebrows.
“And may I ask, Y/N, your reason for coming here to the forlorn beach at this hour of this dim night?”
A shy smile ghosted your lips as you averted your gaze to the sand, as if staring at him would make you melt to a puddle.
“I… uh… I’m here to fish.”
His face lit up the dim surroundings, the smile on his lips growing wider.
“Fishing is an art. The tranquility it brings the soul can certainly spark an inspiration to the lulled mind.”
With that, he picked up his fiberglass rod and attached bait skillfully. Your eyes are affixed on him as he cast his fishing line with flair. You suddenly noticed that there is a bucket with a couple of fish by his feet. You shook the stupor brought about by his beauty and grabbed your bamboo rod and fished beside him.
You shyly glanced to look at his face. His mesmerizing smile had not faded as he patiently waited until something started tugging in his line. You could not peel away your eyes from him while he reeled in the fish gracefully despite the apparent struggle. His every movement makes you want to be pulled in his orbit. A triumphant smile brightened his face as he unhooked a herring and placed it in his bucket of fish.
Your thoughts were interrupted by his soft voice.
“Are you alright, Y/N?”
You could feel the heat rising in your cheeks despite the cold night breeze caressing your cheeks. You nodded with a bashful smile, your heart hammering strongly. You grabbed your bamboo rod and tried your hand at fishing, but you were immensely distracted by the beauty incarnate beside you. A lovely peal of laughter escaped his lips as he watched your poor attempt at fishing. He tapped you on the shoulder, a reassuring glint in his sparkly eyes soothed your frustration.
“It takes time and practice for you to perfect the craft. Speaking of time…”
He paused for a few seconds and looked at his watch.
“Oh my. It’s already midnight, Y/N. In exchange for the company that you kindly provided, I would like to walk you home. I will gladly take the opportunity to spend more time conversing with you.”
Out of shyness, you wanted to refuse his offer. But his pleading eyes and your yearning to spend more time with him prevailed.
“I appreciate it, Elliot.”
“I will just stow away my fishing rod in my cabin, and I shall join you.”
With his fishing rod on his hand, he jogged towards his cabin and quickly slipped in and out. He smiled sweetly at you as he walked beside you. You and Elliot exited the beach and were greeted by the lampposts that shone into the darkness of the late night. The brightness of the lamps further accentuated his stunning features, letting you see how well-chiseled his jaw is, how delicate-looking his skin is, how kind-looking his eyes are. The town square is quiet, save for your leisurely footsteps. Your nervousness is making your mind blank, unable to think of anything that can break the ice. Luckily, he started speaking.
“I hope that you will consider this tranquil town your home. I moved here a year prior, and the kind atmosphere of the Valley makes me feel at ease.”
He let out a sigh as he continued.
“Unfortunately, as homely as it feels to be here, I cannot seem to find the inspiration to begin writing my novel.”
You glanced at him sympathetically.
“I hope that you will be able to find your muse for your novel.”
“Thank you, Y/N. I truly appreciate your kind wish for me. I also hope for the best for your new farm life.”
More silence punctuated your interaction. Finally, you reached the wooden gate that leads to your farm. A timid smile ghosted your lips as you laid your eyes on him once again. He smiled back at you as his eyes crinkled with delight.
“It was truly a pleasure meeting you, Y/N. I hope to see you tomorrow. I could assist you with learning the art of fishing if you desire.”
You beamed with joy, the prospect of seeing him again made your heart soar.
“I definitely need your help so that I can learn how to fish. Well... I hope to see you again, as well. Be careful on your way home.”
“Adieu for now, Y/N.”
You watched his magnificent figure as he walked away from you, his beautiful hair being softly wafted. You sighed as you admired him from afar, your eyes trained on him until he disappeared from your sight. You unconsciously placed your hand on your chest, your heart threatening to burst out. Is this love at first sight? You’re not sure, but one thing’s certain: you’re looking forward to seeing his magnificent face again.