#fomt gray

CLIFF

Pastor Carter and you had been talking. How could you cheer up Cliff? You hadn’t been in Mineral Town long but already enjoyed Cliff’s company. Then, you overheard Manna talking in the town square. The winery would be offering a couple’s tour for Valentine’s Day. Cliff and you weren’t official but maybe this would be how to confess your feelings? You hurriedly interrupted the gossiping ladies for information on the tour. 

“Cliff!” you excitedly huffed from your run to the church. 

“Ah, hello,” his brown eyes blinked at you in surprise. “Is everything okay?” 

“Do you want to go with me on a winery tour tomorrow?” You hurriedly added more as Carter’s eyebrow rose. “I mean, they don’t do tours often and it would be a great way to meet more people.” 

“Sure, that sounds good.” 

“Great!” you smiled, trying to ignore the priest’s smirk as he disappeared into the confessional. 

The next morning your nerves were all over the place as you hurried through chores. You wanted enough time to shower and dress before the tour began. Your heart plummeted a bit to see Cliff standing with Ann outside the winery.

“Hey Y/N! Are you here for the tour as well?” Ann asked.

“Y/N is the one who told me about it and invited me,” Cliff softly answered.”

“Oh, like a date?”

Cliff and you were spared answering as Duke and Manna began the tour. As you followed the group into the grape vines, you glanced over at your companion. Cliff looked as though he was struggling to concentrate with a beet-red face. You quickly turned your attention to the process of wine-making to ignore your furious blush. How could Ann have asked that? It felt as though the tour ended quickly. Did you have enough money to add the wine-tasting portion to your tour? You weren’t ready for the day to be over after only a couple of hours. 

“Um, here Y/N,” Cliff interrupted your thoughts holding out a chocolate bar. “Happy Valentine’s Day.”

“Thanks, you didn’t need to get me anything! I had fun,” you smiled. 

“Yeah, it was nice. The process was more interesting than I thought. I’m sure you need to get back to the farm. I’ll see you tomorrow and-” 

“Yeah?” you encouraged him to continue. 

“I wouldn’t mind if this was a date,” he muttered, blushing once more before hurrying off to the church. 

Once you recovered from your shock, you grinned the whole way back to the farm. His subtle confession fueled your confidence to pursue Cliff.

CODY/GORDY

“Would you have time for a trip to the city on Valentine’s Day?” 

“I could probably make that work,” you hesitantly answered.

A swirl of conflicting emotions shot through you at the question. Elation that Gordy approached you first, disappointment to cast away the plans you made, and curiosity about why he asked at the forefront. Rather than answer any further, Gordy nodded and thanked you before leaving. You were thankful tomorrow was Valentine’s Day before panic hit you. You hadn’t spoken with Takakura about watching the farm! Hurriedly you scrambled to secure his help. With Takakura agreeing to watch the farm, your thoughts turned to what to wear. It would be a much simpler task if you knew what was happening tomorrow. 

The morning found you dressed in layers and ready for anything. Gordy arrived soon after dawn and the trip felt short as you talked. He was making more progress in his art after visiting the farm. Much more than you felt you were with the farm. The senseless comparison drifted from your mind as Gordy held open the door to a large studio. The lobby had floor-to-ceiling storage of glass pipes and various vases, pumpkins, and other glass sculptures. 

“You mentioned wanting to try stained glass since it was something a grandparent did. I couldn’t find stained glass but this is glass blowing,” Gordy explained as you leaned closer to examine a pumpkin’s delicate leaves. “We’re not doing the pumpkins. This class is for glasses.” 

“This is amazing!” you grinned eager to start.

After signing a waiver you were admitted into the sweltering workshop. You were thankful for the layers as you peeled some off before taking a seat with Gordy. You were disappointed to not be able to blow the glass until Gordy explained the dangers a small mistake could pose. You almost forgot about your date as you picked colors, twirled the molten glass within the furnace, and were guided in shaping the glass into a wine tumbler. Gordy was conversing with the artist he was with as they worked. You couldn't fight a giant smile as you watched him.

“That was so much fun! I've never done anything like that before. Do you have plans on what we're going to do next?” 

“I haven't planned anything.” Gordy's brilliant smile was too grand for the mountain path as he enjoyed your enthusiasm. 

“Let me choose something! I'll think of something amazing,” you promised, lacing your fingers through his.

DARYL

A sigh of relief escaped, releasing your built-up stress as you heard the familiar knock. You hadn't been sure that Daryl had heard you invite him to dinner yesterday. The scientist wasn't typically one to ignore you but he had been especially engrossed in whatever research was before him the past week. You doubted the man even knew today was Valentine’s Day. In a way, you should be thankful. It removed much of the pressure to plan grand romantic gestures and just enjoy his company. 

“Daryl?” 

The man on your doorstep looked like a stranger. His hair was smoothed into order. The usual haphazard clothing was neat and pristine down to matching socks and new shoes. His hands clutched a bouquet of red roses and a heart-shaped box you felt certain contained chocolates. As Daryl's foot began to tap its impatient, nervous tempo, you knew with certainty it was him. 

“What’s going on?” 

“It's Valentine’s Day,” the scientist frowned at you. “My research indicates the day should be celebrated with flowers and chocolates for your loved one. I should also dress up and take you to dinner. I found a suitable restaurant with excellent reviews in the city.” 

“You made a reservation?” you asked in astonishment as you accepted the flowers and candy. 

“Reservation?” 

“Yeah, everything in the city will be busy without one since so many people will be out.” 

You regretted the words almost instantly as you could see Daryl begin to get agitated. He worked so hard on this surprise that you hardly recognized him. 

“Um, Daryl. I'd much rather have you here to myself than go out.” He scoffed at the words. No doubt assuming you were trying to make him feel better for the blunder. You hurriedly revealed your plans before he could say anything. “I actually have a surprise for you. I got a bottle of that wine you liked and an assortment of cheeses for us to share before dinner. I've been working with Sebastian on a new dish that should be good.”

“Well, if that's what you want I suppose we should do it,” Daryl calmly stated though you could see the excited gleam in his eye.

DOCTOR/TRENT

“Try this!” 

Doctor Trent enthusiastically held the medicine toward you. This was the exact same predicament you were in not too long ago. His eager and excited face along with his profession spoke of safety. Yet, experience reminded you that the last time you tried a new medication you became a patient. Elli had given him a firm scolding so you were a little surprised he had asked again. Then again, the nurse was not currently present at the clinic. 

“I assure you it isn’t anything like last time,” he promised, noticing your hesitation. How could you resist his smile and enthusiasm? Surely, he at least from last time since you hadn’t. 

“Bottoms up,” you weakly smiled before gulping from the glass jar. Well, you weren’t on the floor passed out but this tasted worse than the bitter one. “Ugh, what is that?” 

A crestfallen look passed over Doctor Trent, “Ah, was it bad? I tried making it taste like chocolate for Valentine’s Day. That way you could be energized and avoid eating too many sweets.” 

“That was… thoughtful.” 

You felt a bit bad now for gagging at his hard work. There was no doubt in your mind it was a terrible idea but it had been a sweet gesture. He must have reached the same conclusion now that he had slowed down. You watched as Trent winced sniffing the concoction. Before he could begin apologizing you hurriedly removed a gift box from your rucksack. 

“I hope you’ll accept this! I made cracked pepper chocolate,” you explained handing him the box. “It’s dark chocolate. I’ve heard that isn’t as bad as milk chocolate.” 

“Thank you.” 

You were uncertain if his soft reply was accompanied by a light blush. As you tried to get a closer look, Elli’s return quickly prompted Doctor Trent to hide yet another failed medicine.

GRAY

You huffed out a sigh and stretched. You had been in the winter mine for most of the past few days. The basket filled to the brim with gems was a testament to your hard work. You had collected as many different types as you could and matched each to the criteria Siabara gave you. 

Gray was happy with just copper ore but you wanted to give him something better. Free gems would help him practice and advance his career. You knew this would be the perfect Valentine’s Day gift after the broach he gave you. You just had to get it back to your house. Thankfully, he would be meeting you for dinner there. 

“Y/N!” a familiar voice caught your attention on the path down the mountain. 

His hat was the first thing you recognized through the swirling snow. In a panic, you quickly removed your coat to cover the basket's contents. 

“Hey, what are you doing this way?” you asked. “I thought we had dinner plans?” 

“It's past that time. Gotz said he had seen you head into the mine. I was worried you overworked and passed out.” 

“O-oh, I'm sorry. I guess my watch isn't working,” you glanced down at the cracked face. It was working immediately after you fell and must have stopped while you worked. “Gee, this really isn't what I had planned. I was going to surprise you with these and a delicious dinner.” 

“Let's get you home and warm up.” 

Gray removed your coat from the gems and made certain it was securely on you. Before you could grab the basket it was in his arms and the blonde ushered you down the mountain and into your farmhouse. You found yourself hustled into a warm bath while Gray began to cook. You emerged warm and dry to see the table set with soup. Roses filled your vase as a centerpiece and a sniff told you something with chocolate was baking. The basket of gems remained untouched by the door. 

“Hey! You need to look at the gems I got you,” you urged as Gray pulled out a chair for you. “Please, I worked really hard.” 

His blue eyes flicked toward the glittering basket before he mumbled, “I'd rather you take care of yourself than risk your health on gems.” 

“S-sorry,” you sheepishly apologized. “If I promise to not do something like this again will you look?” 

“You're impossible to stay mad at,” the young man sighed. His anger and your guilt were quickly redirected as Gray exclaimed over his gift and you indulged in the rich foods he cooked.

GUSTAFA

“Valentine’s Day is coming up. Is there anything you want to do?” he casually asked. 

“Not really,” you grumbled. 

“Hey, what's up?” 

“I just don't care for it. There's so much pressure and I hate chocolate. But we can do whatever you want!” 

“I bet not liking chocolate does make the holiday unbearable. It's all good! Well just have a mellow day,” Gustafa smiled. 

You worried when you woke on Valentine's Day Gustafa would do something big or nothing would change. Spending more time with him for the holiday was all you wanted. Seeing nothing different in the morning, you got to work caring for your animals. The musician was crouched near the strawberries you planted when you exited the chicken coop. 

“Mornin! Can you spare some of these if they're ripe?” 

“Yeah, that's not a problem. How many do you want?” you asked, wondering what he needed them for. 

“Great! You said you liked cheesecake and I managed to get Sebastian's recipe. Do you want to make one together?” 

“I'd love to!” 

You were almost disappointed by how quickly the cheesecake was done. Gustafa complimented the strawberries you grew bringing a blush to your cheeks. All the fertilizer paid off making them delicious and large. He stopped you as you reached for plates, suggesting going to his yurt instead. Once there you passed hours snacking and listening to Gustafa play various instruments. As it grew late, you opened the door to a snowstorm. 

“You shouldn’t travel in this,” Gustafa commented from over your shoulder. “Stay here, I have some spare clothes you can borrow.” 

You changed quickly watching his back as he gave you privacy. Before you called him to turn around you spied a green hat on his dresser. Though the same shade, it differed greatly from his floppy one with a wide brim and pointed top. Feeling mischievous you quickly donned it.

“You can turn around,” you chirped. 

“Hey, that looks great on you!”  

“Why don't you ever wear this one?” 

“I just thought it might be time for a change. Do you like this one better?”

“You should wear what you want,” you pouted. 

“I'd prefer to match your tastes.”

His warm breath against your ear sent a tingle down your spine. Maybe Valentine’s Day wasn't so bad after all.

KAI

You deeply sighed as yet another couple in town exchanged valentines. This was the worst Valentine’s Day since the year you didn't receive any chocolates at school. You had gotten something. Kai sent an express gift through the mail containing tropical fruits and a postcard of where he was staying. You would rather see him than coconuts and whatever else exotic things were in the gift. 

The long-distance relationship was one that you thought was working until now. His absence on a day dedicated to lovers made you miss him more. As you shoved your purchases into your rucksack you thought about what to do next. Fishing at the beach sounded like a decent distraction. You could imagine the weather was warmer and Kai's boat was pulling into the harbor. Your eyes blinked in surprise as you stepped onto the beach. 

Were you seeing things in the bright snow? Someone wearing a purple bandana couldn't be stepping onto the dock. Maybe it was some sort of crazy coincidence rather than some sort of delusion. Yet, the closer the young man came, he looked more and more like Kai. 

“Hey! What are you doing on the beach? It ruined my plans to surprise you at home,” he grinned, stopping in front of you. It really was him. Tears of happiness pricked your eyes as you stepped forward to wrap your arms around him. 

“What are you doing here? I didn't think you were coming until Summer.” 

“Well, I didn't think you'd know what to do with everything I sent. It's a lot for one person,” Kai answered, his arms wrapping around your waist. “Besides, I missed you more than I ever could warm weather. But, could we take this inside? It is really cold out here.”  

The day was spent with you sharing details of who was dating who in town and any other gossip Kai missed. He related tales of his travels and taught you about each thing he sent. The tanned youth dedicated the evening to cooking with you in the kitchen using the new produce. You groaned more than usual when the alarm rang in the morning. 

“Can't you stay longer?” 

“I wish,” Kai muttered, already rolling out of bed. “I've got to finish wrapping up business elsewhere before I can stay in Mineral Town.”

MARLIN/MATTHEW

“Could you come by the farm for Valentine’s Day?” 

Matthew had been hinting about you coming over to Vesta's farm instead of hosting him at yours. You had been brushing the comments off, having Vesta and Cecilia over your shoulder for a romantic holiday wasn't something you were keen on. 

“Sure,” you reluctantly agreed. Matthew was insistent on how to grow crops but had always been flexible with you on everything else. You could give in this once. There would be other Valentine’s Days. You insisted on bringing dessert so you weren't going over empty-handed. Matthew barely nodded before rushing off. You couldn't stop the frown that crossed your face as he disappeared. 

The few days did nothing for your mood. Matthew wasn't available and if you managed to see him, Cecilia or Vesta quickly intervened asking you to please leave and come back on the holiday. By the time it was Valentine’s Day, you weren't sure you ever wanted to see Matthew again. You furiously slammed the lid down on your dessert. It wouldn't be right to stand him up, even if that's how you felt. 

“Oh, hi Y/N!” Cecilia cheerfully greeted you at the farm's entrance. 

“Go ahead and let yourself in! We'll be late getting back from Mineral Town,” Vesta winked at you before leaving with Ceci. 

You opened the door to the house wondering what could be going on. Matthew was in the kitchen pacing in front of the oven. His eyebrows shot up noticing you but as they darted back to the oven you realized his worry. You quickly entered, placing your container for dessert on the table. 

“I didn't know you cooked!”

“I don't, not really. I asked Vesta and Ceci for help to make you dinner. It's lasagna.” 

“You made me homemade lasagna?” 

“Well, I had a lot of help.” 

“That doesn't matter! I'm so excited to try it!” 

The timer went off allowing Matthew to hide his blush from you as he hurried to remove dinner from the oven.

RICK

You rushed through farmwork in the morning to confine yourself in the kitchen. The work was ambitious and you needed the time to make certain it was perfect. After all, the man you wanted to woo deserved it. The sun was dangerously close to setting when you finished and observed your work once more. It was going to be difficult to move the cake to deliver it. A knock at the door interrupted your thoughts. Who could that be?

“Do you have a moment?” an agitated Rick inquired. 

You barely managed to say yes before the young man was in your house. Did he hear about the cake? Was he here to turn you down for Karen? Popuri had said the two had always been close. 

“Can you believe the nerve of him?!” 

“W-who?” you asked, watching the brunette pace your floor. 

“My dad! The man has been gone for years and instead of returning home he sends a letter for Valentine’s Day!” 

“Oh,” you hesitated. All you really knew was that his dad was looking for a cure for Lillia. While Lillia seemed okay with it, you could see how much it distressed Rick. You knew taking over your grandfather's farm wasn't easy and Rick probably didn't have an easy time either. 

“I would never abandon my family like that! Let alone ignore a valentine and do the bare minimum. Further-” Rick trailed off. You followed his eyes to the cake you baked. It stood proud, a chocolate concoction made to look like one of the brown hens Rick tended. Nestled at its side were three eggs made of rice krispie treats dipped in white chocolate. 

“Um, Happy Valentine’s Day,” you weakly said, gesturing to the cake. “I planned on presenting it differently. Sorry, the timing isn't better. You can keep talking about your dad.” 

“I'm so sorry I let anger get the better of me,” Rick apologized. His face was still red but from how his gaze had changed you doubted it was anger flushing his cheeks. “I didn't think I'd receive something like this from you. I love it.” 

Rick eagerly accepted your invitation to dinner. He spent the meal promising you an amazing gift next Valentine’s Day. The young man looked uncomfortable when you went to cut a slice of cake. He said it seemed like a waste to damage it when you worked so hard.

ROCK

“What are you and Y/N doing today?” Nami asked the blonde. 

“I don't know, I haven't given it any thought. Why? Are you missing seeing me?” Rock teased. 

“You know it's Valentine’s today, right?” 

As the tanned blonde scurried in a panic to find something, you were having a very similar conversation with Takakura. How could you forget Valentine’s Day? It was your first one dating Rock as well. You felt terrible for forgetting. Was there anything you could do at the last minute? Nothing you could think of seemed glamorous enough to show your love. You hurriedly finished chores to visit the Harvest Sprites. Maybe they had a recipe somewhere for chocolate and you had the ingredients. 

Your luck in finding a recipe ended horribly. Nina and Sebastian had one but no spare ingredients to give you to make the recipes. Maybe you could make it to the dig site before Flora and Carter left. Then at least you might be able to give Rock something nice. You froze in your tracks at the sight of Rock leaving your farm. He quickly caught sight of you and hurried over. 

“Hey! I found this flower for you,” he offered the Upseed Flower. “I don't really like it but it made me think of you. Because y’know it's pretty like you. So, what did you get me?” 

“I'm so sorry, Rock. I forgot it was Valentine’s Day,” you wailed. 

“Ha ha, that's great! I forgot too until Nami said something so I grabbed a flower,” he laughed. “What do you say to some dinner and TV?” 

“Sure, I'd love to cook you dinner.” 

“Great, it was hard to find a flower in the snow. I've worked up an appetite.” His golden eyes twinkled with mirth as he pecked your cheek.