Love Is The Best Medicine (Stardew Valley - Harvey)

Chapter 36 - The Calm Before The Storm

"Wouldn't miss it for the world," you replied, a bright smile on your face.

The train pulled into the station and the doors opened. You and your friends stepped aboard, finding seats together. The hum of the train, combined with the chatter and laughter, created a lively atmosphere that echoed the shared excitement.

As the train glided through the scenic countryside, the anticipation reached new heights. Conversations revolved around the upcoming wedding and the excitement that was building as the day drew closer.

"So what colour are you thinking for the bridesmaid dresses?" You asked.

"I'm leaning towards a soft lavender. Something that matches the Valley. What do you all think?" Leah asked, her mind clearly in deep thought.

Emily nodded enthusiastically, "Lavender sounds lovely! It's such a romantic colour, and it'll look amazing with the flowers and decorations."

Haley chimed in, "I agree! Lavender is a universally flattering color. Plus, it'll make for gorgeous photos." You nodded in agreement, Lavender was an excellent choice.

The train eventually arrived at the neighbouring town, and you and your friends disembarked, ready to dive head first into many different dresses.

You approached the dress shop and made your way inside. The boutique was adorned with elegant gowns in various styles and shades, each one different from the previous. Racks of bridesmaid dresses lined the walls, showcasing an array of colors and designs. The soft lavender dresses you had spoken about, beckoned from their section, and you all made your way over towards them.

A friendly shop assistant welcomed you, her eyes bright with the enthusiasm. "Welcome! Are you here for bridesmaid dresses?" she asked, guiding your group. "Yes, that's us." Leah replied smiling. The assistant brought out several styles for you all to try, Leah either giving her approval or disagreeing for each dress before you tried them on.

Emily held up a long sleeved dress with mesh sleeves and a tight skirt. Haley had her eyes on a more contemporary design of dress, holding one up to show Leah. "I'm loving the neckline on this one. It's so chic!" Leah laughed and agreed.

Haley and Emily had found the dresses they loved and Leah had approved of both. That just left you to find a dress.

As you sifted through the racks, the assistant approached, a dress in hand that she deemed particularly pretty. "I think you'll love this one," she said with a warm smile, presenting you with an off-the-shoulder gown. The delicate fabric flowed gracefully and you couldn't help but admire it.

Curiosity and excitement filled the air as you slipped into the gown. The moment you fastened the dress, it seemed to come alive with the perfect balance between timeless elegance and contemporary flair. The off-the-shoulder design added a touch of romantic allure, and the fabric flowed with a subtle grace as you moved.

As you stepped in front of the mirror, the reflection revealed a vision that resonated with both the chosen theme and your personal style. The lavender hue complemented your skin tone and made you look gorgeous. You couldn't quite believe what you were seeing in the mirror before you.

Leah beamed as she saw you in the dress. "It's stunning! I knew the off-the-shoulder style would suit you perfectly!"

"Do you think so?" You replied, smiling in disbelief. You had never worn something as pretty as this before.

"Definitely, it's gorgeous." Emily responded, in awe of you. With unanimous approval from your friends and a sense of genuine satisfaction, you knew you had found the dress that not only aligned with the wedding theme but also felt like an extension of your true self. "It may need to be taken up a bit at the bottom." You added as you gazed down.

"Emily is going to alter them all herself." Leah added. "I'd be honored to do it," Emily chimed in, her eyes shining with excitement. "I'll make sure they fit like a dream!"

With the consultation concluded and the dresses ready for alterations, you and your friends left the boutique, the bridesmaid dresses carefully packed for their journey back to Pelican Town. The late afternoon sun bathed the town in a warm glow as you headed to the train station.

-

Soon the train arrived at Pelican Town. You disembarked, Emily taking your new bridesmaid dress with her for alterations.

"Thanks for today, it was lovely." You smiled, giving Leah a big hug. Leah returned the smile, her eyes reflecting the happiness you shared. Her embrace was tight. "It was wonderful having you all here. I can't wait for the wedding day!"

"I can't believe how soon It's come around." You added, your mind wondering.

"It's only a couple weeks away." Haley spoke, reminding you all that the days were passing quickly. It seemed as if in that moment the realisation had just finally settled in for Leah. "I know, it's scary." She replied, looking slightly lost in thought.

With a final round of smiles and well wishes, you and your friends parted ways, each heading home in different ways.

Arriving at the farmhouse, you briefly soaked in the tranquility of the surroundings. The upcoming wedding, with all its chaos and plans, was looming.  As you entered, the anticipation of the countdown to Leah's wedding day had begun, and you knew the two weeks would pass quickly.

You dreamed about having your own wedding, wearing the prettiest dress and marrying the perfect man; something you had fantasied about since you were a child.

Just as your imagination took you down the aisle of your make-believe ceremony, Harvey, with his usual spontaneity, swooped you up into a tight embrace. The sudden warmth and physical connection snapped you out of your own mind, bringing you back to the present moment.

"I missed you!" He announced, pecking your lips gently.

"I missed you too." You smiled, resting your head on his shoulder. "Did you have a good day?" You asked, breaking the hug and hanging your bag on a dining room chair.

"It wasn't too bad, I had to go to the clinic today for some appointments. How was your day?" He responded, straightening out his pyjamas.

"It was nice, I got my bridesmaid dress." You smirked, Harveys eyes lighting up.

"And I guess I'm not allowed to see?" He teased as he sat back down on the sofa.

"I don't have it, Emily does. She's altering it for me." You took a sip of some water left in your bottle from the morning and sat down next to him. Harvey pulled you into him, wrapping his arm around your shoulders.

"I have work tomorrow." Harvey added as you both got comfortable. You nodded silently. Suddenly, the distant rumble of thunder echoed through the Valley, gradually growing louder. The serene atmosphere was replaced by the anticipation of an impending storm.

Harvey glanced out the window, his brow furrowing with concern. "Looks like we might be in for a bit of a storm tonight," he remarked, his gaze fixed on the darkening sky outside the window.

Just as you were about to respond, the first raindrops began to patter against the windowpane. "I've left my clothes outside to dry!" You fretted, quickly jumping up and grabbing a coat of the peg. You rushed outside and towards the washing line which was past the chicken coops.

"Evangeline, it's raining!" Harvey exclaimed, watching you rush outside.

The gentle sound soon escalated into a rhythmic melody as the storm unleashed its full force. The wind whistled through the trees, and the rain intensified, clashing against the roof harshly. Harvey watched on. You were going to get drenched.

As you reached the washing you slipped on the wet grass, twisting your ankle.

You had no luck with the weather.