Meanwhile, in Pelican Town, at the General Store.
Caroline had delivered the birthday gift to the farm early that morning. Returning home, she found Pierre standing motionless behind the counter.
This was the first time Abigail wasn't home for her birthday. The house felt unnervingly quiet. Though she'd been gone awhile, Pierre still felt the absence deeply—especially today.
He said nothing, but the longing was plain.
Caroline offered a gentle smile. "What would you like for dinner?"
"Fried Squid," Pierre murmured after a pause. "Do we still have any?"
"Yes." Caroline moved to the kitchen, pulling squid from the fridge. "Think of it as practice. She'll leave home eventually—whether for Kalos adventures or to marry someone here and build a life of her own."
Pierre understood. He took a slow breath, checked the store's inventory and his balance—then strode to the door and flipped the sign.
"Let's close the store for today," he said, joining Caroline at the stove.
---
Elsewhere, Ron had arranged courier delivery for Caroline's gift after estimating Abigail's location. He'd also brought Gloom and Shaymin to the factory, testing their synergy on the salt-scarred pasture.
The result was immediate: lush grass surged across the barren patch. Ron rewarded them with Grass-type Poké Puffs, then picked up some macarons—another Kalos specialty—to bring to Penny ahead of the Stardew Valley Fair.
Back in Pelican Town, he headed straight to the Stardrop Saloon. Gus had just opened after a late night when Ron approached with parcels.
"Afternoon. What's that?" Gus asked.
"Snowflake Beef," Ron said, pointing to the marbled cuts. "Kalos specialty. I was delivering Caroline's gift to Abigail and brought some back."
Gus's expression softened. "Ah… today's her birthday. Her first away from home." He examined the meat—rich red streaked with delicate white marbling. "Fits the name."
Remembering the popular 'Wing Meat,' he smiled warmly. "Thanks. I'll develop a recipe and send it to the farm."
Ron nodded his thanks and left. He trusted Gus—even if wild onions were the only seasoning available, Gus was always able to find a way.
---
Meanwhile…
Fall 15 was Sandy's birthday. Busy sewing, Emily hadn't written in days. For a gift, she'd gathered wildflowers Sandy adored—summer sweet peas, spring daffodils—tucked safely in a box.
Knock.
"Who is it?" Emily finished a seam, hurried to the door—and froze.
"Afternoon~" Sandy hid something behind her back, eyes twinkling. "It's your friend forgotten in the desert!"
"Sandy!" Emily pulled her into a tight hug. "How did you—?"
"My birthday's in two days," Sandy said, returning the embrace. "You never write or visit… so I came to you. I couldn't spend it alone in the desert, staring down that silent bodyguard."
Emily laughed softly.
"Oh!" Sandy stepped back, pointing to the table. "Is that the fabric the farm owner brought you?"
"Mm." Emily's face lit up. "From Kalos! See the patterns? And the lace trim?"
Unlike textiles from the Ferngill Republic, this fabric bloomed with intricate florals and delicate white lace.
"Stunning," Sandy breathed, sinking onto the sofa. "He brought this just for you?"
Emily nodded. Sandy's gaze turned sly.
"Why're you looking at me like that?" Emily felt a little uncomfortable under Sandy's stare. She brushed her chin-length blue hair back and sat back down at her table.
"Mm-hmm~" Sandy hummed knowingly.
"He's just… thoughtful," Emily stammered. "He knew I made Abigail's gown, and—"
"And guessed you'd love this?" Sandy finished. "So he brought extra?"
Emily paused. A recent dream surfaced—Ron's quiet smile, the weight of the fabric in her hands.
"…Maybe," she whispered, a faint smile touching her lips. "Maybe there could be something… someday."
------------------------------------------------------
40+ Chapters Ahead: patreon.com/EphemeralShadow
There's something for free patrons too! Free Patrons receive 1 chapter in advance :)