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Chapter Text

Milly stood in front of the ancient oak desk with her hands shaking. This wasn't an easy decision, and it certainly wasn't the first time she had found herself in this position, grappling with the gravity of her choice. All too often, she'd opted for the comforting embrace of the familiar over the daunting prospect of starting anew.

“It'll be alright. You'll get through this, and you'll be so much better off. Trust me, I know how hard it is to leave someone you love.” Leah patted her back comfortingly. 

Taking a deep breath, Milly let it out slowly, trying to quell the tempest of emotions swirling within her. With a quivering resolve, she picked up the pen for what must have been at least the tenth time, and swiftly signed her name on the divorce certificate, each stroke of ink a release of the weight she'd been carrying. 

“Alright, it's over now. I'm sure you'll be okay, but I'm sorry you have to go through this.” Mayor Lewis said somberly as he collected the paperwork. 

“Here, let me walk you home,” Leah offered, slipping her arm around Milly's shoulders as they stepped out of Lewis’ house and into the crisp late autumn air, feeling the weight of the world shift slightly.

When they arrived back at the farm, Milly waved goodbye to Leah, her heart heavy, before cautiously opening the door. This was the true challenge—not the act of signing the document—but confronting the man she’d once loved and delivering the finality of their union. 

As she stepped inside, an anguished scream tore from her throat, a raw, primal sound echoing through the silence. 

Leah rushed in behind her, panic igniting in her chest as she saw Milly crumple to the floor, overwhelmed by a tidal wave of grief. “What hap-… Holy shit!” Leah gasped, nearly stumbling over her own feet. She quickly looped her arms through Milly’s underarms, dragging her out onto the porch and closing the door on the haunting scene within.

Leah then stepped into the empty field, having been freshly plowed for the end of Fall. She remained close enough for Milly to see her, a silent promise of support, but far enough away that she would be out of earshot. With trembling fingers, Leah fished her phone from her pocket and dialed urgently. 

“Pelican Town Medical Clinic, this is Dr. Harvey.” 

“Harvey, it’s Shane… He’s… I think he’s dead.” The words chilled Leah's blood as they slipped from her lips, stark and undeniable. 

“What?! Leah, where are you? I’ll be right there.” 

“I'm at the farm; Milly found him first; she’s in shock.” Leah struggled to keep her breath steady, her heart race increasing with each passing second. 

“Okay, I’ll be there as soon as possible,” Harvey responded briskly, the urgency palpable in his voice before the call abruptly ended. 

***

Harvey stepped inside the door. It was a grim scene to be forced to witness. He was sprawled out on the rug next to an empty bottle of vodka. There were also several beer cans on the coffee table, a testament to a night of excess. His head was bleeding; he'd likely hit it on the coffee table when he passed out from alcohol poisoning. His skin had already started to turn pale from lack of oxygen. 

Harvey placed his fingers on his neck. As he suspected, there was no pulse, and he felt slightly cold. There was certainly nothing he could do at this point. He took his internal body temperature and checked for muscle stiffness and discoloration. He determined that he'd been dead for at least an hour or two, though determining time of death wasn't exactly a common job for him, so he was a bit out of his depth. 

He noticed a few yellow bar-shaped pills spilled across the coffee table. He looked around for the pill bottle they came from and found it on the floor below the coffee table. He picked it up and frowned; the prescription label had been torn off. He picked up one of the pills, examining it. They reminded him of a school bus in terms of shape and color. He turned it around in his fingers and read the code.

R039

He pulled out his phone and looked it up. After a quick search, he identified it as Alprazolam, 2 mg. Harvey never would've prescribed Xanax to Shane; giving Xanax to an alcoholic with a history of suicidal ideation would be a death sentence. He wondered where he had gotten it from. 

Harvey didn't have to wonder too hard about how he'd died. It was most likely suicide, based on the sheer volume of alcohol he appeared to have consumed and the likelihood that he took Xanax at the same time. Surely the head injury hadn't helped either.

He dialed the number for the mortician in the next town over and arranged for them to transport the body. Then he took a few blood samples, several photos, and made notes on the surrounding evidence. 

He squeezed his eyes shut and took a deep breath before he opened the door. This was going to be the truly difficult part. He remembered his professors talking about this in med school, but now that he was in the moment… How the hell was he supposed to tell her? He knew their marriage wasn't going well; everyone did, but this would still be harrowing news. 

As he stepped back outside, a light drizzle began to fall, adding an additional layer of gloom to already somber surroundings. Assuming Leah and Milly had retreated to Leah's cottage, he made his way there, the sound of water tapping gently against his jacket echoing his heart’s apprehension. 

Knocking tentatively on the door, it swung open to reveal Leah, her expression a mix of relief and anxiety. Inside, Milly sat at the table, her small frame hunched over, staring blankly at the plants by the window. The bright green leaves were stark against her tear-streaked cheeks, and the redness of her eyes was a painful reminder of her grief.

“Milly?” Harvey called softly as he approached her, feeling the weight of the moment pressing down upon him. She slowly turned her head towards him, her blue eyes lifeless and dulled, as if they held no awareness of his presence. A deep breath constricted in his throat as he steeled himself. “I'm so sorry to have to inform you…” He hesitated, feeling the gravity of his words gripping him. 

“Your husband has passed away…” The statement fell from his lips like a shattering glass, each syllable reverberating in the charged silence. 

Milly blinked, her gaze still vacant. “He's not my husband anymore,” she replied, her voice almost mechanical, devoid of emotion.

Taken aback, Harvey felt a pang of confusion; he hadn’t expected her to take “till death do us part” so literally. 

“Alright… Well, the mortician is on his way, so I will return to wait for him. You're welcome to come with me if you wish, but if you'd prefer to stay here and… avoid seeing…” His voice trailed off, realizing the insensitivity of his words. What a foolish thing to say to someone grappling with such profound loss. What was he thinking? 

When Milly remained still, like a statue trapped in mourning, he gently took that as his cue to leave.

***

Chapter Text

“I'm sorry, I'm not really the best at giving speeches,” Marnie began, her voice wavering slightly as she stood before the gathering. “But Milly asked me if I could give the eulogy. So hopefully I can do this without crying the whole time…” She took a deep breath, steadying herself. “Shane had a very tough childhood. He grew up with a single mother and really didn't have much family to lean on. My sister passed away when he was just 18, leaving him abruptly alone in the big city. I think that early start to adulthood is part of what gave him such a thick skin. He found it hard to make friends, always keeping a wary distance from strangers…”

As Marnie's words enveloped the audience, a wave of memories washed over Milly, filling her eyes with fresh tears that blurred her vision. She closed her eyes, allowing the recollections to surface. The least she could do was try to remember the brighter moments...

***

“Hello, I'm Milly. It's lovely to meet you.” She smiled brightly and extended her hand in a friendly gesture.

“I don't know you. Why are you talking to me?” he grumbled, lifting his beer to his lips as if to shield himself from her bright personality with the frothy amber liquid.

“Oh… Uh, I'm new here, so I just thought it would be nice to meet people…” Embarrassment flooded her cheeks, and she awkwardly slipped her hand back into the pocket of her worn overalls.

“Right, well, don’t waste your time talking to me. I promise you have nothing to gain.” His tone was sharp, a blunt rejection that echoed across the quiet room, yet his eyes seemed to flicker with an underlying vulnerability.

***

Shane's adult life was no easier. The shadows of grief lingered long after he lost close friends in a tragic car accident. Their passing left him with the responsibility of caring for their young daughter, a heavy burden for someone already weighed down by loss. I believe it was that heartache that initially drove him to seek an escape through alcohol…

Milly wound her way through the forest on the way home one evening when she spotted him sitting on the dock, silhouetted against the fading sunset. He always told her to leave him alone, but there was something about him—a magnetic pull that kept her from stepping away. His lips spoke of rejection, but his eyes whispered an unguarded plea for companionship. She became resolute in her mission to crack his tough exterior.

“Hey, Farmer… Here, have a cold one.” He offered a beer, his face carrying a hint of a smirk, as she settled next to him on the worn wooden planks of the dock.

She hesitantly accepted the offer; while beer was not her drink of choice, the unexpected kindness lit a spark of joy in her. She cracked it open and quickly gulped it down, hoping to wash away the bitter aftertaste as swiftly as possible.

“Fast drinker, huh? Woman after my own heart. Just don’t make a habit of it; you’ve still got a future ahead of you.” His eyes gleamed with a mix of teasing and concern.

“And you don’t?” Milly raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued.

He stared out at the water, his silence thick with unspoken thoughts. In that moment, she felt a complex blend of empathy and curiosity. She yearned to pry open the story behind his guarded facade, but instinctively understood he wasn't the type to divulge his life story to someone he barely knew.

Instead, she pictured the struggles hidden beneath his surface—the burdens he might carry that shaped his somber demeanor. She considered sharing her own experiences, revealing how she had wasted years working at Joja Co, answering call after call in the clammy concrete building of that soulless chain that drained her joy, but hesitated. Shane was still entrenched in that world, stocking shelves at JojaMart, likely because it was one of the few places to work here. Discussing her newfound freedom would only highlight his shackled existence. Not everyone was fortunate enough to be gifted a farm they could run away to and start a new life.

He cracked open another beer and slid it towards her, and though reluctance bubbled within her, she accepted the gesture. Refusing would seem rude, particularly after he had already opened it. So she gulped it down, feeling the sharpness of the alcohol burn her throat.

His eyes widened, caught off guard that she had chugged it again. She must have been extra thirsty. “Sorry, uh, I don’t have any more…” he mumbled, taking a long swig from his own can, eyes drifting back to the calming surface of the pond.

Milly nodded, relief washing over her as she registered she wouldn’t need to endure more of that bitter drink. Though she occasionally savored the subtler sweetness of cocktails and hard lemonade, tonight’s choice had been dictated more by his intent than her taste.

They lapsed into a comfortable silence, the air thick with the sounds of nature—a gentle rustling of leaves and the distant croak of frogs. She absorbed the beauty surrounding her: an oasis of green, calm, and serenity that felt foreign yet inviting.

Before long, the alcohol's effects began to unravel her composure, blooming a haze over her thoughts. Regret washed over her; she could have taken her time, sipping carefully and avoiding this impending dizziness. She could have pretended to drink it, or taken it home and poured it out. Instead, she had traded caution for camaraderie, swallowing fast to keep pace with him.

“Buh… Life…” he groaned, breaking the silence in a low, weary voice that resonated with unspoken burdens.

“Ss not so bad, s it? There's good things too,” she slurred, struggling to form a coherent thought as her head spun.

He looked at her, a chuckle escaping his lips, and it warmed the space between them. “Alright… Looks like you've had enough; let’s get you home.” 

He stood, offering his hand, and she took it, nearly stumbling off the dock before his grip steadied her. As she looked up, she noticed the rich depth of his eyes, dark yet glinting like polished emeralds under the fading light. In that moment, she felt an unspoken connection, a flicker of understanding that illuminated the darkness surrounding both of their lives.

"You've got beautiful eyes… Ya know?" she blurted out, her cheeks flushed with a blend of courage and alcohol.

He shook his head, an amused smile creeping across his lips, and wrapped an arm around her waist, gently supporting her as they strolled through the chilly spring air. The warmth of his body pressed against her side brought a comforting solace, and she found herself resting her head on his shoulder as he made sure she was safe on her way home.

***

“Happy birthday, Shane!” Milly called out in a cheerful, sing-song voice as she skipped over to him, her vibrant energy illuminating the space near the imposing taxidermied bear stationed next to his usual spot beside the bar.

“Oh, is it my birthday? I was hoping I’d forget,” he grumbled, rolling his eyes. The revelation was hardly a surprise; everyone in town was well aware of the communal birthday list that was the town calendar, a glaring reminder of the day. Shane had made it clear over the years that he preferred solitude on this particular occasion, but Milly’s exuberance seemed to sweep away that preference like dandelion seeds in a brisk wind.

“Gus, your finest beer, please?” she beamed at Shane, her eyes sparkling. “Or at least, whatever kind Grumpypants over there likes best.”

Gus chuckled heartily, his robust laughter echoing in the bustling atmosphere. “Of course, coming right up.”

Once the frothy stein was placed before her, Milly slid it across the polished surface like a celebratory offering. “For you, my newest friend!”

He took a moment to appreciate the gesture, smirking despite his previous annoyance. “This is actually really nice, though. Thank you.” He raised the glass in a small toast before indulging in a hearty swig. After a brief silence filled with the clinking of glasses and murmurs of the crowd, he quipped, “Wait, aren’t you going to have any?”

“Nope, I’ve only got 156g left! I just sold my first big harvest today, so I was feeling rather rich, but the fact is I’m still poor.” A light giggle escaped her lips, dancing above the soft hum of the gathering.

“Ugh, you’re such an idiot. Why would you waste all your money on buying me a beer?”

“Because it’s your birthday, of course!” she replied, a grin spreading across her face.

He sighed dramatically, casting his gaze upwards as if searching for an answer in the sky. “Why are you so bubbly and happy all the time? Isn’t that exhausting?”

“I’m just happy because I have friends like you,” she said sincerely, her smile warm and genuine. “And I’m probably a tiny bit more exuberant when I’m around you… gotta balance out your grumpiness.” She winked.

“Ugh.”

***

Milly's eyes filled with mischief as she made her way across the lush grass to the buffet table. “Hi Shane, are you enjoying yourself?”

“Mmm… Well, the spread is good, as usual. This sauce is excellent; you should definitely try some,” he replied, savoring a rich slurp off his spoon as the flavors danced on his palate.

“Huh, I’ll have to give that a try in a bit—” 

“Ah, this green stuff is spicy!” he suddenly exclaimed, crunching down on a tortilla chip with more gusto than foresight. “...ow.”

“Here, maybe this will help!” Milly quickly poured him a glass of iced tea, adding a splash of milk with deft finesse. 

He took a long gulp, relief washing over his features. “Ah, not bad. What is this?” 

“I guess it’s kind of like a watered-down version of a Thai iced tea,” she shrugged playfully. Without missing a beat, she continued, “So, I was thinking… want to dance with me?”

“...No,” he replied, turning back to his plate, clearly uninterested.

“Oh, come on, pretty please? It’s only my second town event, and you’re all dressed up in that suit—so I know you’re going to be dancing anyway! Is it because I’m not wearing the right dress? I didn’t have time to get one, but Emily said she’d help me out next year… I tried to dress nice regardless…” 

“Trust me, your dress has nothing to do with it,” he said flatly, not entirely missing the chance to soften the blow.

“Then why not? You don’t want to be my friend?” she pouted dramatically, her doe-like eyes looking up at him above her exaggerated pouty lip.

He sighed, surrendering to her infectious spirit. “Fine... sure, I’ll dance with you. I guess I’d better stop eating...” He reluctantly set his plate down, their playful banter filling the air like music.

“Hey, Milly, how are you enjoying the flower dance so far?” Maru asked as she approached the table, reaching for a couple of the colorful hors d'oeuvres artfully arranged on a platter. 

“Great! I convinced Shane to dance with me!” Milly declared proudly, looping her arm through his as if claiming a trophy.

“Oh, did you, now?” Maru chuckled, clearly entertained. “Well, have fun then!”

Just then, a booming voice cut through the chatter as Lewis announced that the dancers were to come to the center of the field; the dance was about to commence, and the anticipation crackled in the air like electricity.

***

Life had its twists and turns for him as he faced the relentless grip of alcoholism. He was a fighter, but the struggle felt like an uphill battle, each day presenting a new challenge.

“Hey Marnie, I was hoping to get some more feed for my chickens…” she said as she opened the door, her voice carrying a touch of hopeful anticipation. Marnie, unsurprisingly absent from the counter, prompted her to step into the kitchen with a frantic call.

“Milly, help! Can you do something? He’s out cold!”

Following Marnie into Shane’s room, she found him sprawled out on the floor, a chaotic mess of beer cans littering the ground around him. 

She hesitated for a moment before trying to nudge him, but he remained completely dead to the world. In a flash of inspiration, she pulled out her watering can and poured its contents over his face.

With a startled yelp, Shane jolted upright.

“Shane, what's the matter with you?! All you do anymore is mope around your room and drink beer!” Marnie’s voice echoed with concern, her tone sharp yet laced with care.

He groaned, turning his gaze away, shame tugging at his features. “You wouldn’t understand…”

“I’m worried,” Marnie replied, her voice softening as genuine concern filled her eyes. “What’s your plan? Don’t you ever think about the future?”

“Plan?” He scoffed, bitterness shadowing his words. “Hopefully, I won’t be around long enough to need a ‘plan’…”

In the doorway, Jas had been listening, her tiny body trembling with emotion, before she suddenly dashed away, sobbing. Marnie rushed out to comfort her, leaving Milly and Shane alone in the dimness of the room.

“Jas… I’m sorry…” he whispered, his voice cracking, as he sank to his knees, the weight of his despair crashing down around him. “What’s wrong with me?!” he cried out, bitter sobs tearing through the silence.

***

Beyond alcoholism, or perhaps because of it, Shane fought a daily battle with depression. He couldn’t see the light that shone within him. Despite the love surrounding him, he felt unworthy of it, convinced that he didn’t belong in this world.

Milly walked through the Cindersap forest. Chopping wood was a good way to clear her mind. However, as she wandered south toward the sewer, she stumbled upon a sight that churned her stomach. There, on the ground, lay Shane once more, face down in the dirt, encircled by a fortress of beer cans. 

Kneeling beside him, she pressed her fingers to his neck, checking for a pulse.

“... Milly?” he groaned, his voice hoarse.

A wave of relief washed over her, knowing he was still alive, still conscious…

“I… I’m sorry…” he hiccuped, tears shimmering in his eyes.

“Shane, what happened?” she asked, her heart aching for him.

“M... My life… It’s a pathetic joke…” he sobbed, “Look at me… why do I even try?”

Milly's heart clenched at his words. No one deserved to feel this way, especially Shane, who had slowly begun to reveal his kind spirit beneath the pain.

“I’m too small and stupid to… to take control of my life… I’m just a p… piece of soiled garbage flittering in the wind…” he lamented, punctuating his thoughts with a huge burp. “I’ve been coming here often lately, looking down… Thinking ‘Here’s a chance to finally take control of my life… These cliffs…’ B… B…”

Her eyes widened in shock, and her pulse quickened. This was the second time he’d alluded to suicide; the realization sent a shudder of fear racing through her. How serious he really was terrified her.

“But I’m too scared, too anxious… Just like always…”

“Shane… I’m so sorry…” she started, but he cut her off.

“Milly, all I do is work, sleep, and drink… T… To dull the feelings of self-hatred. Why should I even go on? Tell me… T… Tell me why I shouldn’t roll off this cliff right now…” His voice cracked, desperation oozing from his words.

Biting her lip, Milly’s mind raced. What could she possibly say to keep him from harming himself? How could she reach into the storm of his despair? She felt utterly helpless. “The decision is your own, just know that I’m here for you. And… I want you to stay. I care about you.”

Shane sighed, his shoulders sagging under the weight of his burden. “Thanks… I appreciate that… I really do.” He paused, looking at her with a fragile vulnerability. “Milly…”

“Yeah?”

“... I think you should take me to the hospital now.”

***

Ultimately, the weight of his struggles became too great for him to carry alone. Yet, amidst the turmoil, he began to find a glimmer of hope, a chance for healing as he grew closer to Milly.

The next morning, as she prepared to start her daily chores, a tentative knock echoed from the door. Opening it, she was taken aback to see Shane standing there, looking awkward yet determined.

“Hey…” he began, shuffling his feet. “Oh man… How do I say this?” He scratched his head, the corners of his mouth twitching nervously. “I’m really sorry for what happened at the cliffs. That was… Embarrassing…”

She regarded him with tenderness, her heart swelling at his sincerity. “I’m just glad you’re still here.”

“Wow, it was that serious, huh? I can hardly remember…” He looked away, as if the weight of regret hung heavy on his conscience. “I’ve decided I want to see a therapist. Harvey got me in touch with one of his colleagues…”

“That’s really great, I’m so glad to hear that,” she replied, a smile breaking across her face.

“Yeah… Well, anyway, I just wanted to thank you for taking care of me. And I want you to know that I’m going to take things more seriously from now on. I don’t want to be a burden on anyone…”

“You’re not a burden on me…” she reassured him, her smile brightening the dim corners of his heart.

His smile returned, tentative yet genuine. “Thanks. I’ll catch you later, Farmer.”

***

He turned his attention to his chickens, and slowly but surely, he began to reclaim his life from the grip of alcoholism. 

Milly was strolling past the ranch on her way home when Jas came dashing toward her, a burst of excitement in her steps. 

“Milly! Milly! Look!” She gleamed with joy, holding up her foot for Milly to inspect. She wore sparkly purple slippers, their surfaces lightly dusted with dirt from her hurried run. “They’re real bunny-jewel slippers! Uncle Shane got them for me! Can you believe it?”

Milly’s eyes lit up as she admired the whimsical footwear. “Wow, those are absolutely stunning! That’s so thoughtful of him!” 

Jas’s eyes widened, almost sparkling with disbelief. “I can’t believe he managed to get them! Marnie told me they’re really expensive!”

“Hmm, yeah, I guess he must have saved up for a while. What a thoughtful gift; it’s clear he really loves you,” Milly replied, her heart warming at the thought of Shane’s kindness.

“He said he’s ‘cutting back on an expensive habit’ so he can afford things like this. I don’t really understand what that means, though.” She shrugged, her innocence shining through. “I’m gonna go show Vincent! See you later, farmer Milly!” she shouted gleefully as she bounded off towards town.

Milly smiled to herself, her heart swelling as she continued her way home. Who would have thought that Shane could be so sweet and selfless?

***

As she stepped into the cozy ranch house, Jas approached her with a sparkle of mischief in her eyes. “Hey, Uncle Shane said he has something to show you.”

Curiosity piqued, Milly followed Jas into the coop, where she found Shane cradling a chicken in his arms. He had just completed painting a vibrant sign declaring “Fresh Eggs.”

“Hey, Farmer, what do you think?” He flashed her a bright, infectious grin.

Looking around, she noticed a flock of striking blue chickens pecking at the ground. 

“My special blue hens… I've been raising them in secret for the past few months. I won't be living here forever, and I wanted to pass something on to Jas. I've been teaching her how to care for them. I don't want to be a leech on the world; I want to contribute something. Even something small like this,” he explained, his voice tinged with sincerity.

“You contribute more to the world than you realize…” she replied softly.

He turned to gaze at her, surprised by her tenderness. “Thanks…” he murmured, his lips pressing together as he contemplated what more to say but ultimately chose silence.

***

Shane found himself falling deeply in love with Milly, his determination to become a better man fueled by his feelings for her.

“Are you sure this is how I express my romantic intentions?” Milly asked Pierre, who was handing her a gorgeous bouquet of flowers across the rustic counter. 

“Absolutely! Everyone in town knows what this signifies,” Pierre assured her with a warm smile.

Taking a deep breath, she turned and made her way toward the saloon, her heart pounding in her chest.

As she pushed open the heavy saloon door, the warmth of the room enveloped her, and she spotted Shane across the crowded space, his face lighting up at her arrival.

“Hey, Farmer,” he greeted, a charming smile playing on his lips.

Nervously, she approached him, hiding the flowers behind her back before awkwardly thrusting them forward. 

“Oh… Uh, thanks. They look nice…” Shane responded, taking the bouquet with a hint of confusion.

“So… is that a yes then?” she asked, her voice quivering with anticipation.

He blinked at her, tilting his head as if the question came from another world. “... Yes?”

A wave of relief washed over her as she exhaled, wrapping her arms around him in an embrace that surprised him. He staggered back slightly, taken aback by the sudden affection, but quickly wrapped his arms around her in return. She melted against his chest, eyes closing in the sweet warmth of the moment.

“Congrats, you two.” Gus winked from behind the bar, amusement dancing in his eyes.

“Congrats?” Shane furrowed his brows, utterly bewildered.

“... Aren’t you together now? She just gave you a bouquet…” Gus smirked, his eyebrows raised in expectation.

Shane grasped her by the shoulders, holding her at arm's length, his eyes wide with realization. “Wait, did you just ask me out?!”

“Yeah… so you don’t like me that way, then?” Her expression fell, disappointment flickering across her features.

“No! I do! I do like you!” he blurted out, quickly pulling her back into his embrace.

“So you’ll be my boyfriend then?” she asked, her voice hopeful.

“Only if you’ll be my girlfriend…” he said with a beaming smile, swaying side to side happily as he held her.

Cheers and playful whistles erupted from the crowd as more patrons entered the saloon, their joyful camaraderie surrounding the couple in a warmth that felt almost magical.

***

“Hey, there you are!” Shane beamed as Milly approached the bus stop, his enthusiasm lighting up the evening air. She sprinted into his arms, laughter mingling with the crisp September breeze, and for a moment, they simply held each other, as the world around them paused in harmony. As they stepped onto the bus, fingers laced together, the warmth of his grip provided a comforting anchor against the chill of the night.

Milly had pushed herself through a long day, fueled by determination to make it to the stop on time. Exhaustion washed over her like a gentle wave, and she soon succumbed to sleep, resting her head against Shane's shoulder as the bus rumbled along.

“Hey, wake up, we're almost there!” He nudged her gently, the familiar tremor of excitement in his voice cutting through her dreams. “Man, I always get so nervous before games…” 

Peeking up at him through sleepy lashes, her smile warm and affectionate. 

They navigated through the bustling crowd into the vibrant stadium; the electric atmosphere filled her with awe. Front-row seats awaited them, and she couldn’t help but wonder how he had managed to afford such prized spots. He was certainly putting in effort for their first official date.

During halftime, Shane vanished for a moment to fetch them food from the concessions. When he returned, he handed her a frosty beer, which she accepted with a hesitant smile. She didn't have the heart to tell him that she didn't like beer, so she took a sip and then placed it in her cup holder. 

As they cheered in unison, adrenaline coursed through their veins, and they jumped in jubilation, buoyed by the exhilarating flow of the game.

A time-out broke their revelry, and Shane turned to her, his expression earnest. “Hey, I've been meaning to say… Thanks for sticking with me through everything… My anxiety, depression… You know… You've been a really good friend to me ever since you got here…”

She beamed back at him. “You deserve to have someone who cares about you.” 

His attention shifted as the crowd erupted in cheers. “Look, the Tunnelers are on the attack!” His voice rose above the noise as his eyes lit up, fervently watching as their team launched an impressive play. “Goal!!” he bellowed, caught in a moment of pure exhilaration, grabbing her face and kissing her.

The suddenness of his kiss surprised her; she tensed momentarily, and he quickly pulled back, a blush creeping over his cheeks. “Oh… I'm sorry, I got kind of carried away there… maybe I had one too many…” He cleared his throat, flustered.

But Milly's heart raced—she felt emboldened. With a swift motion, she grabbed him by his jacket, pulling him close for a kiss that ignited the air between them. He embraced her tightly, his warmth wrapping around her like a cozy blanket.

***

After a few months together, Shane and Milly were married, embarking on a new journey together. He began helping with the farm, and as they worked alongside each other, his life seemed to be blossoming in ways Shane never anticipated.

Milly glanced at the delicate pendant resting in her palm. An impulsive decision surged within her, a thrilling desire to act without overthinking, pushing aside all the doubts that lingered. 

She dashed to the saloon, bursting through the door like a whirlwind. Raindrops cascaded from the ringlets that had formed in her sandy-brown hair, dripping onto the hardwood floor as she made her way to Shane, his surprise palpable amidst the hushed murmurs of the patrons.

With probably a bit too much confidence, she held out her closed fist towards him, palm down, concealing the pendant within. “Marry me,” she declared, her voice steady as she gazed into his eyes, unwavering.

“Damn,” he replied, a mischievous smirk tugging at his lips. “Alright, if you want me that bad, then I accept.” He seized her wrist, pulling her in close and kissing her fervently, sealing the moment.

The saloon erupted with cheers and whoops of congratulations. Three whirlwind days later, they were legally married.

***

"Not long after the wedding, Shane embraced fatherhood. He was caring and affectionate with their baby boy," Marnie continued her heartfelt speech, her words drifting in the cold winter breeze that ruffled through the square.

Charlie climbed into Milly’s lap, bringing her back to reality for a moment as she held him close and stroked his raven hair. He was only three; he barely understood what was happening. The heaviness in her heart grew as she contemplated how little he understood of the world shifting around him. The thought that he might not remember his daddy when he grew up was a pain that cut deeper than any wound.

***

“Hey, babe, I got you something! It's on the table,” Milly called from the cozy couch as Shane stepped through the door.

“Oh, that's nice of you,” he replied, curiosity sparkling in his eyes as he approached the table. He picked up a rolled-up T-shirt emblazoned with the Tunnelers logo. “A Tunnelers' shirt? Nice!”

“Well… Try it on!” she encouraged, attempting to hide the flutter of nerves brewing within her as she stood and made her way over to him.

As he unwrapped the shirt, something clattered to the kitchen floor. “Huh? What was that?” he asked, leaning down to discover what lay beneath the table. His expression shifted to one of shock as he picked up the pregnancy test, the two unmistakable lines glaring back at him. 

“No... Are you kidding me right now? Is this a prank?” he stammered, his mind racing with confusion.

Milly's heart sank; she couldn’t decipher whether his surprise was joy or disbelief. “Of course it isn't! Why would I joke about something like that?!” she exclaimed, her excitement tainted with frustration.

“I'm sorry... Come here,” he said, his voice softening as he reached for her, pulling her into a reassuring hug. “This is so crazy… It's definitely mine, though, right?” he teased with a smirk.

Milly pushed him away, rolling her eyes as she stormed off to their bedroom. 

“I'm kidding!” he called after her, “I love you…”

***

“You're doing great, Milly. You’ve got this; you're almost there,” Harvey spoke soothingly, his voice a steady anchor amidst the chaos of her labor. 

With a deep breath that filled her lungs and steeled her resolve, Milly summoned every ounce of strength she had left, letting out a primal scream as her baby finally emerged into the world. Harvey, ever the attentive caretaker, gently dried the tiny, squirming infant before placing him tenderly against her chest. The warmth and weight of the newborn on her skin were surprising. She felt a love unlike anything she had ever experienced for this tiny human. It was like she had known him her entire life. 

Harvey lingered for several minutes, ensuring that all was well and tending to the aftermath of birth with meticulous care before removing his gloves and washing his hands.

“Will you be alright if I step out for a moment?” he asked, his gaze lingering on her face, observing the exhaustion and joy etched across her features.

“Yeah, I’m alright now. Thank you,” she replied, a soft smile gracing her lips, her eyes radiant as they remained glued to her tiny miracle.

Harvey smiled professionally and walked towards the waiting room. “Alright, Shane, I think you should come back in now…” he called back from the doorway.

Shane, slumped in a chair, raised his head slowly, uncertainty swirling in his mind. The weight of impending fatherhood felt almost suffocating, a tempest brewing inside him as he wrestled with self-doubt.

As he stepped into the room, the sight before him struck a chord deep within. Milly was cradling their son, a fragile being that seemed both miraculous and surreal. 

“Can… Can I hold him for a moment?” Shane’s voice wavered with anticipation.

“Of course. You don’t have to ask to hold your own son,” she replied, rolling her eyes playfully, her spirit lifting at his eagerness.

Cradling the delicate baby in his arms, Shane examined the tiny features that were just beginning to show the promise of life. “He’s got such dark hair…” he murmured, a wide smile breaking across his face, illuminating the uncertainty that had plagued him moments before.

“He has your eyes and your nose, too,” Milly said, relaxing back into the pillows, gratitude and relief washing over her like a warm breeze. 

“Hey, Charlie… It’s funny, you're named after a chicken,” he began, his voice softening to a high-pitched coo. “Well, not really, her name was Charlotte, yours is Charles… but when she died, it was like losing a friend… So I wanted to remember her… and that's why we named you after my dead chicken… This is getting weird. I'm sorry, little man. Uh… I love you,” he continued, his words a gentle lullaby. “I barely met you, but your daddy already loves you. You broke through my shell faster than anyone ever has, pretty amazing. You’re gonna be an amazing kid; I can already tell.”

***

“While Shane had his ups and downs, today let's focus on the good times. I want to honor him for the effort he made and the joy he brought into our lives. Let’s remember him fondly, keeping in our hearts the loving husband and father he was. We love you, Shane,” Marnie’s voice broke as she stepped away from the microphone, tears streaming down her face as she acknowledged the weight of their loss in the frosty town square.

As the sun peeked through the clouds, casting a soft glow over the gathering, friends and family shared their final goodbyes. One by one, the single men of the town, along with Gus, stepped forward and together lifted Shane’s casket with solemn reverence. The crunch of snow beneath their boots filled the air as they carried it toward the hearse. Their boutonnieres no longer needed, each one laid his lovingly on the coffin—a token of remembrance. 

Milly moved forward, her heart heavy yet resolute, placing a delicate blue chicken feather with the casket flowers before stepping back and cradling Charlie close to her chest. After Shane’s remains were cremated, she followed his final wish, transforming a portion of his ashes into fertilizer and, with it, lovingly planted a row of corn in the greenhouse, nurturing it with care. Then fed his blue hens with the remnants of his spirit, allowing him to nourish life in a way she knew he would appreciate.

***

Chapter Text

The last day of Fall, Year 5, the day Shane died

Harvey stood up as the trilling sound of the after-hours doorbell echoed through his apartment, slicing through the quiet of the evening. He hastily descended the stairs, the weight of the day pressing heavily on his shoulders. The shadows of despair still loomed large after finding Shane lifeless, grappling with the mortician's details, and confronting the grim realities of loss. Another emergency was all he needed to finally drive him into insanity.

When he opened the door, he was taken aback to see Milly standing there, her face pale and drawn, revealing the toll that the day had taken on her. "Are you alright, Milly?" he asked, scanning her form for any visible signs of injury, his heart swelling with concern.

“I'm not hurt… Physically… I'm sorry, I shouldn't bother you after hours. Never mind.”  She began to turn away, her shoulders slumping.

“Wait… You’re not bothering me…” Harvey found himself blurting out, the words tumbling from his lips. “... Would you like to come in?”

A hollow smile flickered across her lips briefly, hardly even a ghost of its usual warmth, as she nodded and stepped into the dimly lit waiting room.

“What brings you here?” he asked cautiously, aware that despite his own tumultuous day, hers had been a thousand times worse.

“I… I can’t go home… I know you and Leah cleaned everything up, but… I just can’t sleep there. Charlie is still with Marnie, but she doesn’t have anywhere for me to stay, nor does Leah…” She fidgeted, the tremor in her voice betraying her anxiety. “I was hoping… maybe I could sleep here… in the clinic… just for tonight.” The request hung heavy in the air, a weight she felt she had no right to impose on him. She squeezed her eyes shut, embarrassment washing over her. “Sorry, forget I mentioned it—that’s crazy. I’ll just go to the community center. Sorry to bother you.” She started to retreat, but he instinctively caught her wrist.

“You can stay here, I don’t mind,” he said softly, offering a genuine smile. “The clinic beds are surely more comfortable than the old couches at the community center, and you really need all the rest you can get.”

“Yeah… I remember it being cozy here when I had Charlie, that’s why I thought of coming.” Her voice faltered slightly, her gaze dropping. “It’s actually the only place I’ve slept outside of my house and the island. I would’ve just gone there, but Willy won’t take the boat out after 5 pm, and I didn’t want to be so far from Charlie. Anyway, I don’t want to impose…”

“Not at all. I’d actually welcome the company. It’s been a long day,” Harvey assured her.

Overwhelmed, she bit her lip as tears brimmed in her eyes. She covered her mouth as a sob escaped, the sorrow crashing over her like a relentless tide. “I’m sorry… I can’t believe I still have tears left… It’s just, today has been the worst day of my life.”

Harvey observed her, his heart aching for her, feeling the tug of helplessness. Unsure whether a hug was appropriate, he placed his hand between her shoulder blades and gently guided her toward the stairs. Once they stepped into his modest apartment, he gestured for her to sit on the worn couch, the too-soft cushion dipping low under her weight.

Stepping into the kitchen, he set about brewing a pot of herbal tea, the fragrant steam swirling around him. Once it was ready, he poured the soothing liquid into two mugs and returned to her.

“Here,” he said softly, handing her the mug. “Would you like cream or sugar?”

“No thanks, this is just fine,” she replied weakly, her fingers trembling slightly around the warm ceramic.

He settled beside her on the couch, looking deeply into her eyes as he spoke, “I just want you to know, if you ever need someone to talk to, I’m here for you. I’ll do everything within my power to help. If you’d like, I can also arrange therapy.” He paused, glancing down at his lap. “Life can be painful sometimes… But there’s always hope for a better future. You’ve got to believe in that…”

“It’s hard to believe in anything right now… but I appreciate your kind words,” she murmured, taking a small sip of her tea to mask her quivering lip.

Harvey nodded, standing up with purpose. “Let me get your bed ready. Just relax here; I’ll come get you when it’s done, alright?”

She nodded, gratitude flickering in her tired eyes.

He made his way downstairs, carefully preparing a hospital bed with fresh sheets and fluffy pillows, the routine offering a semblance of comfort amid the chaos. After setting everything up, he trudged back upstairs.

“Alright, your bed is read—” he started, only to find her already deep in sleep on the couch, her form serene and vulnerable. The exhaustion of the day had claimed her, and she barely stirred as he gently nudged her.

He stood over the couch, debating whether or not to wake her. He could leave her there, but he was certain his couch was even less comfortable than the ones in the community center. He considered moving her to the bed he’d prepared in the clinic, but he wasn't particularly muscular and didn't want to risk dropping her down the stairs. He paused, watching her. She’d been through so much, more than he even knew, he was sure. She deserved to be cared for. He wanted to make sure she was comfortable, even if only for one night. He sat down beside her, gently scooped her into his lap, and carefully lifted her, feeling her warmth against him as he stood up. Cradling her in his arms, he moved to his bed, lay her down gently, and tucked her in; his soft blankets enveloping her like a protective embrace. 

Once he was ready for bed himself, he turned off the lights, leaving only the quiet echo of the evening in the air, and slipped downstairs, his heart heavy with the day's struggles yet somehow lighter in the knowledge that he had offered her a safe haven, if only for a night. 

*** 

The sun spilled through the window, casting a warm, golden light that pierced directly into Milly’s eyes, causing her to stir. She squinted, rubbed them, and blinked a few times as the brightness gradually faded, revealing her unfamiliar surroundings. This wasn't the sterile, medicinal setting of the clinic; it was Harvey's apartment, a place she'd never anticipated waking up in. A wave of mortification washed over her as she realized she had slept in his bed. How on earth had she found herself there? The thought of invading his personal space sent a jolt of horror through her. Her mind swirled, recalling how disoriented she'd felt the previous night—maybe almost as inebriated as someone who'd had one too many drinks, a situation she was all too familiar with, unfortunately. Though usually she was the sober one. 

She swung her legs over the side of the bed and checked herself, relieved to find she was still fully dressed. At least she hadn’t stripped away her dignity, just the thought of that made her cheeks flush. Her gaze landed on her phone, plugged into a charger on the nightstand. The screen glowed, revealing the time: half past noon. Astonished, she blinked again, hardly believing she had slept so long. The truth, albeit difficult to admit, was that it had been the first restful night she'd experienced in ages, though the implications of that realization weighed heavily on her heart. There was far too much baggage around that fact for her to be willing to even entertain why that might be.

With urgency, Milly gathered her few things and padded down the stairs, her shoes plotting against the floorboards, when she nearly collided with Harvey. 

“Oh, good morning! Er, afternoon, I suppose…” he said, a warm smile lighting up his face as he took a sip of his steaming coffee. “Did you sleep well?”

“Umm, yeah, it was fine. Thanks for letting me stay. I’m so, SO sorry for any inconvenience. I’ll let you get back to work now.” Her words tumbled out in a rush as she practically bolted out the door, fueled by a wave of embarrassment.

***

“Knock knock!” Marnie’s bright, cheerful voice echoed through the cluttered house, though it struggled to cut through the suffocating, pungent odor that lingered in the air, and she immediately covered her mouth in revulsion. 

Milly's home was strewn with remnants of chaos: takeout containers piled high on the counters, dirty dishes stacked precariously in the sink coated in a grimy film, and mold starting to form on some of them. A trash bin sat in the corner, overflowing with messy diapers. Every surface bore witness to Milly's struggle with depression, a visual representation of her overwhelmed state as a newly single parent. Marnie navigated the obstacle course of toys and scattered clothing, her heart heavy as she made her way up the stairs to the bonus room, where Milly sat wrapped in a blanket, still in her pajamas, engrossed in a TV show while Charlie played with a colorful train set on the floor.

“Auntie!” Charlie exclaimed, his little face lighting up with joy as he raced into her arms.

“Hey, little man!” Marnie laughed, lifting him effortlessly and tossing him into the air, his giggles echoing through the room. “Why don’t you go pick out your favorite toys to bring to my house?”

“Okay!” He beamed and bounded down the stairs, his energy a stark contrast to the disarray around them.

Marnie made her way over to the couch, where she attempted to find a seat amid the laundry that was piled high. She reached for the remote and pressed the power button, silencing the flickering TV, which sat next to a large fish tank. It was a marvel that she’d managed to keep the fish alive, though she supposed they were a source of pride for Milly; they were the five most difficult fish to catch in the Valley, not even Willy had managed to catch some of them, yet she had managed to catch them all herself. 

“Honey, I think it would be best if I took Charlie for a while…” Marnie said gently, her tone laced with concern.

“Yeah, you can take him for a few hours, that’s great,” Milly replied, her voice flat, her gaze still fixed on the darkened screen.

“No, Milly… I mean, until you can get your feet under you again. You’re really struggling, and I completely understand that it’s going to take time to heal. But Charlie needs a safe and stable environment—”

“It’s safe and stable here,” Milly snapped defensively.

“Milly…” Marnie sighed, her heart aching for her friend. “Look around you. This isn’t normal or stable. This isn’t you. You’re one of the tidiest people I know. I’m not saying you’ll never see him; you can come over or have him here whenever you like. But he needs structure and routine, and you need to take care of yourself. It’s been four months now…”

Milly's gaze fell to her hands clasped in her lap, fingers trembling ever so slightly. “I suppose that’s true… I need to get myself figured out. I guess Charlie could go stay with you for a while. Just until I get back on my feet,” she relented, the reality of her situation forcing her to make a decision which tasted bitter on her tongue. Or maybe that was just the lack of personal hygiene.

Marnie's expression softened, her smile full of understanding. “It’s for the best. You’re already struggling to keep up with the farm as it is. Spring started nearly a month ago, and you haven’t even planted anything… I hope this will help take some of the pressure off you as well.”

“Thanks,” Milly replied, her voice betraying the turmoil she felt inside.

***

Harvey looked up as the bell above the door chimed lightly, the familiar sound making him feel mildly anxious as he braced himself for the work this was about to add onto his plate. However, he was pleasantly surprised to see her. “Oh, Milly! How are you? What brings you in today?”

She crossed her right arm over her abdomen, nervously gripping her elbow as she took a breath. “I’m… Ready to go to therapy now.”

“That’s great news!” he said, genuine delight brightening his features. “I’d be happy to get that set up for you. Would you prefer to go in person or do telehealth?” 

“Probably telehealth. I remember how taxing it was for Shane to go into the city every week,” she replied, “plus I have Charlie to worry about too.”

Harvey paused, surprise danced across his face as he was taken aback by how she was able to speak about him so easily. “Here, would you fill this out for me? It’ll help get the process started. Just answer honestly—all of this is kept completely confidential and will only be shared with your therapist once they’re assigned to you.” He recovered quickly and handed her a clipboard with a PHQ-9 Depression screening attached.

“Sure, I can do that.” She slid into one of the waiting room chairs, the cool plastic contrasting with the warmth of her hands. Once she completed the form, she returned it to him with a sense of cautious hope.

He rolled back to his computer, taking a sip of his coffee with an easy smile. “Wonderful, I’ll get that set up for you right away. Thanks for dropping by.” The sincerity in his voice wrapped around her like a reassuring blanket, a glimmer of encouragement in her uncertain world.

***

October, year 5

“Hey, could you get Charlie ready for his checkup at the clinic? His appointment is at 10, but I still need to finish feeding the animals before I can take him,” Milly said, her voice light yet tinged with urgency as she made her way toward the front door, the mid-morning sun casting a warm glow around her.

Shane gave a brief nod, his expression unreadable as he remained seated against the headboard of their bed. 

When Milly returned to the house 15 minutes later, she found Charlie dashing around in a colorful Pull-up, his laughter ringing through the air, while Shane sat on the couch, clothes still in his hands, a look of exhaustion etched on his face.

“Seriously?! You couldn’t just manage this one thing for me?” Milly huffed, her annoyance bubbling to the surface as she snatched the clothes from Shane’s hands. “Did you at least change his diaper? Or was that too much to handle as well?” 

Shane slumped visibly, the weight of defeat hanging on his shoulders. “Sorry,” he mumbled, his eyes downcast. “He went potty, but he won’t hold still long enough for me to get his clothes on." He stood slowly, shuffling back toward the bedroom with a heavy heart.

Milly sighed. The tension between them was palpable; she was sure half the town could tell things weren’t going well between the two of them. As she struggled to corral Charlie, she reflected on her reaction and how she could’ve gone about it better. She regretted snapping at him; it wasn’t fair. The residual stress from the Fair last month still hung over them like a dark cloud, casting shadows on what used to be a happy family.

***

“Good morning! How are you today, Charlie?” Harvey greeted warmly as he stepped through the door of the brightly lit exam room, his voice a comforting melody.

“I'm fwee!” Charlie exclaimed, his eyes sparkling with excitement. “I'm having my birfday!”

“Yes, you are three!” Harvey chuckled, his laughter a gentle sound that seemed to ease the atmosphere. “You’re getting to be a big boy now!”

“Yeah! I is getting big! I have big muscles!” Charlie proclaimed as he climbed up onto the exam table, unabashedly flexing his tiny arms in a show of strength.

“Oh wow, you’re super strong! Is it alright if I use my special microphone to listen to your heart and lungs? I want to make sure they’re as strong as your arms.” 

Milly gently guided Charlie back down so Harvey could retrieve the stethoscope that hung around his neck, its silver gleam capturing the light.

“Alright, you sound very healthy and strong! Now, let’s see how tall you are!” Harvey led them over to a scale in the hallway, carefully measuring his height and weight. “Well, Milly, he’s right on track with his growth chart—56th percentile in weight and 34th percentile in height. Since his dad is on the shorter side, that makes sense. You've got a very healthy boy,” he smiled, a warm reassurance in his eyes.

Milly nodded, grappling with a squirming Charlie who was ready to bolt off the exam table at any moment.

“I’ve just got a few questions for you, and then you’re free to go,” Harvey continued as he settled onto his rolling stool with a look of focus on his face. “How many meals does he eat each day? Is he getting a variety of foods?”

Milly laughed lightly, a hint of exasperation in her tone, “I suppose ‘variety’ is a fitting term. He eats about three meals plus snacks whenever he asks. I usually handle dinner and try to incorporate fresh vegetables from the farm, alongside lean meats and fish… During the day, he’s mostly with Shane while I work, so he ends up eating whatever Shane eats—probably frozen pizza, pepper poppers, you know, typical Shane stuff. I’m not entirely sure what Marnie feeds him when he’s over there.”

Harvey nodded, making notes on his clipboard. “Alright, and how is potty training progressing? Is he showing interest in the toilet?” 

“Somewhat. He likes to try, so we’ve got him in pull-ups since they’re easier for him to manage on his own, but he’s pretty inconsistent. He goes when he feels like it, but oftentimes he just wets his pull-up. Shane isn’t really doing any consistent training, and I haven’t had a chance to take a day off yet. Fall is my busiest season. I’m planning to really work on it with him during the winter when things settle down a bit.”

“Alright, sounds good. Don’t stress too much; it’s common for little ones, especially boys, to struggle with potty training. Some don’t figure it out until they’re school age.” He reassured her. “He seems to be thriving with his speech—so that’s wonderful news! Can he draw a circle or use silverware?” Harvey inquired, glancing up with an encouraging smile.

“Yes, he can do both.” 

“Do I have to get a shot? I don’t want owies…” Charlie shuddered dramatically, his big green eyes wide with concern.

“Not today, buddy! No needles for you. You’re all up to date on your vaccines,” Harvey assured him with an easy grin.

Charlie beamed at that news. “Yay! Can I still have candy?”

Harvey chuckled, a warm, friendly sound. “As long as it’s alright with your mom.” Milly nodded, and Harvey reached into the drawer, producing a sugar-free lollipop and handing it to Charlie with a playful knock on the nose. “Alright, I think we’re all good to go! I’ll see you for your next checkup in about a month. And remember, if you’re ever feeling sick or need anything, please reach out,” he said, his professional demeanor reassuring as he opened the door for them.

“Thanks, Harvey, I really appreciate it. See you soon,” Milly replied, leaving the office with a smile as she guided Charlie out into the sunlight.

***

Chapter Text

Early November, Year 2

Leah pushed open the clinic door, the faint scent of antiseptic mingling with the sterile air greeting her as she approached the front desk. Harvey, concentrating intently on his computer screen, looked up as she approached. 

“Hey, Harvey, can you settle a bet for me?” she asked, her voice low and conspiratorial. “I bet Emily that Shane would pass out during the birth, but she thinks he's too cool and unfeeling and probably just chilled in the corner or something.”

Harvey sighed heavily. “Well, I hate to break it to you, but Shane actually wasn’t in the room when she gave birth.” His eyes remained glued to the screen, the tone of his voice matter-of-fact. 

“What?! He wasn’t there?? Is he here right now?!” Leah exclaimed, her whisper morphing into a frantic hiss. 

“No, I think he went to grab some food or something,” Harvey said, glancing up briefly and watching her storm off towards the ER. 

As Leah swept around the curtain, a whirlwind of urgency and disbelief, she found Milly nestled in the bed, the soft coo of a newborn echoing in the room. “Um, excuse me, where is your husband?” Leah queried. 

“Hello to you too… Did you want to meet the baby, or are you just here for Shane?” Milly teased, a playful wink accompanied by a tired smile. 

“I’m sorry, yes, I’m here for you because I actually care! But Shane wasn’t there during the birth??” Leah’s brow furrowed in disbelief. 

“Um… no? But he was just outside in the waiting room... it’s not like he left entirely…” Milly shrugged, her nonchalant demeanor doing little to ease Leah’s growing frustration. 

“That’s absurd! He should’ve been in here, holding your hand, whispering sweet nothings to you, or doing whatever you needed him to do! Sitting on the bench isn’t being a team player!” Leah replied, arm crossed defiantly. 

“I think he was just overwhelmed... I mean, he just became a dad; that’s a lot to handle. It was probably hard for him to see me in pain, and I doubt he’s ever witnessed a birth before, so he might've just not known how to react…” Milly’s gaze wandered towards the window, her expression a blend of introspection and vulnerability. 

Leah observed her friend with skepticism, her concern morphing into indignation. “That’s ridiculous… You just became a mom, and you were the one enduring the pain! How many births have you seen??” She groaned, urgency in her voice. “Okay, tell me, at least from what you remember, what exactly did he do?”

Milly thought for a moment. “Well, I woke up in pain, so he asked if I wanted ibuprofen, and I told him that I can't take ibuprofen this late in pregnancy… And then the pain got worse, and I realized I was probably in labor, so I asked him to time the contractions… So he put on the gridball game and he would push the button whenever I said start or stop… and then when they got pretty close together, I had him call Harvey and he came and they both helped me to walk here…” She paused, thinking. “After that, I changed into my gown, and things got really, really painful. I was crying a lot, and I was trying to breathe and focus on the stuff I learned in the online birthing class… But Shane was watching the game on his phone, so it was hard to focus, so I asked him to turn it off, and he was annoyed, but he turned it off… Anyway, then he started making random crude pregnancy jokes, so I told him to cut it out… And then he just started pacing around the room, cringing every time he looked at me, and he looked terrified and disgusted, and it was making me worried that something was wrong, but Harvey said everything was fine… So I asked him to stop, and he said something like, ‘What do you want me to do? I can't give birth for you.’ So I asked him just to try to stay calm because it was stressing me out… And he said, ‘Alright, I'll stop stressing you out, then.’ and he walked out. Maru came in and said he was just in the waiting room, so I turned my focus to what Harvey was telling me, and it turned out fine. Shane came back in like 15-20 minutes after he was born, I think.” 

“Okay, so let's digest this for a minute… First, he offers you medicine, which he realistically should've known you couldn't take if he was paying any attention at all. Then, he watches the game so he won't get bored while timing your contractions. Which is like the lowest effort thing I've ever heard of. At that rate, you could've just timed them yourself. After you got here, he continued to focus on the game instead of being there for you. Why on earth would he resort to crude humor? What was he thinking? He couldn’t just hold it together for a few hours? Then, after you asked him to stop, he snapped at you and walked out on you. So basically… I’m gonna kill him. Where is he?” Leah struck her palm with her fist, determination surging through her. 

“He’s at the saloon getting us food… I think… It’s been at least an hour,” Milly replied, her tone a mix of exasperation and understanding. “But really, don’t be too hard on him; he was probably overwhelmed with worry. He didn’t know how to cope, and once I took away his distraction, he was left to face the situation, and I can imagine how frightening that was for him. As for the crude jokes? I don’t understand that either. My best guess is it was some bizarre coping mechanism? Maybe he thought if he made me laugh, it would help get me through the pain.”

Harvey knocked softly before entering the room, a clipboard clutched in his hand. “Sorry to interrupt, but I would really appreciate it if you could take a moment to sign this form for me,” he said, offering the clipboard to Milly.

Leah didn’t spare him a glance, still focused on the topic at hand, her expression a mix of disbelief and frustration. “He's an asshole.” Her voice was laced with indignation. “Harvey, back me up here. What kind of husband leaves his wife alone while she’s giving birth?! Isn’t that something only an asshole would do?!”

Harvey fidgeted, his discomfort palpable in the sterile room. “I, uh… it wouldn't be prudent for me to judge my patients or the people they choose to support them… that’s really not my place…”

“Bullshit! What if he was abusive?! You’re telling me you can’t say anything?” Leah’s arms were crossed tightly, her brow furrowed in disapproval as she glared at him.

“I’m a mandated reporter, so if he were abusive, I would be legally obligated to report it. But waiting outside during birth isn’t abuse… As far as I'm aware, he hasn't done anything that could be considered abusive…” He looked worriedly at Milly, searching her eyes. “Has he?”

“No…” Milly replied softly, her voice steady. “He isn’t perfect, but he’s not abusive.”

She handed back the clipboard, and Harvey nodded and stepped outside, leaving the tense atmosphere behind.

Leah shook her head in exasperation. “Either way, if you get pregnant again, just leave that douchebag and marry me instead. I’ll stay by your side, hold your hand, cry with you, and all shit.”

Milly laughed lightly, the tension easing from her features. “You don’t have to marry me to do that. I doubt we’ll have any more kids, at least for a very long time, but if we do, I’ll have you be my birth partner, and we’ll just leave him home with Charlie.”

“Okay, fair enough. But man, I wish you’d called me… I would’ve been here in an instant!” Leah snapped her fingers for emphasis.

“Thanks, Leah. You’re the best friend I’ve ever had,” Milly said, her smile warm and genuine.

“Yeah, yeah, now gimme that baby!” Leah grinned, her arms outstretched, making eager motions toward the tiny bundle in Milly’s arms.

***

Shane stumbled through the front door, the cold evening air breezing into the room. It was nearly winter again.

“Where have you been?” Milly regarded him with concern, her eyes darting from his slightly unsteady stance to Charlie, who was nestled contently against her, fast asleep.

“I was just watching the game with Alex and the guys… Alex set up a special room with a TV in the back of the saloon,” Shane slurred slightly, subtle enough she almost didn’t notice.

“Milly’s brow furrowed deeper. “Shane… Have you been drinking?”

“Just a couple of beers, I'm not drunk or anything,” he shrugged dismissively, slumping against the doorframe.

Her stomach churned with anxiety. Caring for a newborn had been a grueling journey for both of them. Though for Shane, the struggle mostly revolved around the deprivation of intimacy. Milly was usually left to shoulder most of the burdens alone—nights filled with feedings and endless diaper changes while he drifted into his own world.

She quietly feared this might be the beginning of a downward spiral. He had worked so hard to maintain his sobriety over the past year and a half, she didn’t want to see all that progress slip away.

***

“Hey, babe,” Shane approached her as she stood over the stove, stirring a simmering pot of Tom Kha Soup. He leaned in and placed a kiss on her cheek.

Milly sighed, the scent of alcohol wafting off him like a cloud. “You’ve been drinking again.”

“It was just a few beers while I was hanging out with the boys! I'm fine,” he laughed, his voice light but his eyes a bit glazed.

She bit her tongue, stifling the frustration bubbling inside her. She didn’t want to start another fight. Instead, she removed the pot from the burner and sat down to feed Charlie his applesauce, then wiped his little face and hands. Between her regular responsibilities and caring for Charlie, she could barely manage to carve out a moment for herself. By the time she was able to eat her own dinner, Shane had polished off his meal. 

“Can you get Charlie to bed? I want to catch up on these dishes. I didn’t have a chance to clean up after lunch.”

“Yeah, sure,” Shane grumbled, pushing himself up with a bit of a huff as he took Charlie upstairs.

Minutes ticked by, and after a few minutes, the house was filled with the sound of Charlie’s anguished cries. She waited for a minute or two, figuring Shane could handle it, but eventually she couldn’t take it anymore. Milly hurried upstairs, her heart racing, and found him in his crib, wailing in the dark while Shane reclined on the couch in the bonus room, lost in his phone.

“Shane, what the hell?!” She exclaimed, her voice rising in disbelief.

“I tried rocking him, but he wouldn’t fall asleep, so I thought I’d just let him cry it out. I don’t have magic boob power like you do!” Shane retorted, a hint of defensiveness in his tone.

“Then just tell me that and offer to switch with me or something!” She grumbled, frustration clouding her thoughts as she stepped into Charlie’s room, ready to soothe him.

***

“Good morning, babe,” Milly greeted Shane, leaning over to kiss his cheek.

He seemed lost in thought, staring blankly ahead. “Beer or cider? Sometimes life can be challenging.”

“How about neither?” she replied with a sigh, trying to mask her discontent.

“You gotta let loose sometimes…” he said lightly, as if the world outside their home was nothing but a playground.

“Yeah, letting loose isn't exactly something I get to do. Running this farm isn't easy, and I’m a mom too,” she countered, exasperation creeping into her voice. “The fair is coming up next month so I’ve got a mountain of work to do to get ready.”

“What do you want me to do? Clean the dishes? I'll do it... eventually…” he shrugged nonchalantly.

“I don’t know, Shane… Just do whatever the hell you want,” she replied, shaking her head as she stalked out of the room, frustration spilling over.

***

She rolled over in bed, her fingers brushing lovingly across his cheek before she pressed her lips against his. “Good morning…”

“Ooo... my throbbing head. How many did I have last night?” he groaned, his voice rough and sleepy.

“Way too many. I get that it was Winter Star and all, but that was kind of ridiculous,” she said, attempting to infuse humor into the air between them.

“Eh, hey, it was fun though, right? Now that you’re not breastfeeding anymore, at least you can enjoy some with me,” he grinned, a goofy smile spreading across his face.

“I guess… Why do you have that big goofy grin?” she replied, a smile teasing the corners of her lips.

“You really have a short memory span, don’t you?” He blushed, his excitement all too evident.

She rolled her eyes and got out of bed, the weight of the morning ahead settling on her shoulders.

***

“Shane, wake up! Don't make me pour water on you…” she declared, her hands firmly planted on her hips, a mixture of frustration and determination etched across her face.

“Nghh... what is it? I'm trying to sleep,” he mumbled, rolling over in a cocoon of blankets as if trying to hide from the world.

“Exactly. You stumbled in from the bar in the dead of night, and now I need you to watch Charlie so I can finally get some work done… You know, the work that pays for all the things we need so that you don’t have to work…” 

He let out an exaggerated, dramatic sigh. “... I just want to stay in bed.”

“Don't we all, but that's part of being a grown-ass adult, isn't it?” She rolled her eyes skyward, exasperation creeping into her voice.

“What do you want? You sound like Marnie on one of her bad days. Go away.” He sat up slowly, the sheets falling away to reveal his disheveled state.

“I want you to help me for once in your ever-loving life! I want a husband who acts like a partner—not someone who just lounges around drinking beer, staying out all night, and, I don’t know… loves me enough to pitch in around the house!” 

“Ugh... clean, clean, clean. Sweep, sweep, sweep. Bathe. Cook. Make the bed… What… you want me to clean? Make you a sandwich?” he grumbled, sarcasm dripping from his tone.

“Nope, just sit around. I’ll do it all, like usual.” Her voice trembled with frustration, and she felt the sting of tears threatening to spill over.

“All you do is nag! You nag and nag! Maybe that’s why I go to the saloon so often! To get away from you and your constant bitching and whining!” He shouted, his anger filling the room like a storm cloud.

She merely shook her head, feeling defeated, and walked out of the room, slamming the door with a resonating thud behind her.

***

“That must have been very difficult for you. I can imagine how frustrated you were,” Renae, her counselor, spoke gently through the phone speaker. Her voice, warm and soothing, contrasted sharply with Milly's raw emotions. Renae was a middle-aged Hispanic woman, her dark brown hair framing a face that bore the marks of wisdom—tan skin and deep brown eyes that seemed to see right through to Milly's troubled soul. 

A single tear slipped down Milly's cheek. “I just felt so alone. I was stressed out all the time, and he complained far more than he ever helped. His ‘man cave’ was always smelly and disgusting; I can’t function when the house is messy, and he knew that, but he never lifted a finger to clean it up, no matter how many times I asked. And he would get upset if I ever went in there to try to clean it. Honestly, it felt like he didn’t care about me or my feelings at all. Once Charlie came along, everything started to unravel. I look back now and wonder why I even married him in the first place… I think I was just so naive; I wanted a family so badly that I rushed into it with the first guy who paid me any attention. We were never a good match.” 

“Why do you say that?” Renae prompted softly.

“We were just such polar opposites… He lived off junk food and beer; I was a health nut, always trying to eat unprocessed foods and organic vegetables, even before I started growing my own. I hardly ever drank, and when I did, it was usually just light cocktails. I hated the feeling of being drunk. He, on the other hand, probably lived half his life in a haze. He adored gridball, while I never really cared for sports. He never truly wanted to be a father, while I dreamed of having a family since I was a little girl. Our tastes in music, movies, you name it—were completely at odds. Our values didn’t align, our goals and desires… Well, he didn’t seem to have any. It was good in the beginning; we were mostly happy, I think, because we had lots of sex and he worked so hard to stay sober. He went to therapy, cleaned himself up, and for a time, he was genuinely doing well… That’s why I fell in love with him; I saw his potential and watched him grow. I thought he would turn into the husband I wanted, that I could save him. But once Charlie was born, it all just slipped away.” 

“Do you think he disliked Charlie?” 

“No, he adored him. He was always playing with him, showering him with affection, telling him he loved him… That was the one area where he actually succeeded.” 

“How do you think he felt about himself as a father? Perhaps he felt inadequate?”

“Yeah, I think that was a huge part of it. His childhood was tough, so he was always worried he’d mess Charlie up somehow… That he wouldn’t be a good enough dad. It’s almost ironic that, because of all that worry, he did the worst possible thing—he took away Charlie’s dad forever, irreparably.” She scoffed, bitterness creeping into her voice. 

“Suicide is remarkably difficult to comprehend when you’re not the one in that mindset. It defies logic; you can’t reason with someone in that state. It's all driven by emotions and, often, impulsivity. They genuinely believe that their loved ones would be better off without them. He likely thought he was giving Charlie a chance at a better life. Perhaps even a chance to have a different father.” 

“Yeah, well, he didn’t need to kill himself to do that…” Milly looked away, a deep melancholy settling into her chest.

“It seems like there’s more to that statement… Care to elaborate?” 

“I filed for divorce the day he killed himself.” The words spilled out as she bit her lip, trembling as tears streamed down her cheeks.

***

“Mommy!” 

“Hey, Peanut!” Milly exclaimed as she stepped through the weathered wooden door of the ranch, quickly scooping Charlie into her arms. 

“You were gone a long time today, Mommy. I missed you so much!” Charlie said, his small arms wrapping tightly around her neck, his warmth providing a comforting sense of belonging against the day's long hours apart.

Milly's heart swelled as she half-smiled down at him. “Yeah, I’m sorry about that, buddy. I went to the island today. I want to get a magic pillar so I can zip there super fast and even take you with me.”

“Island?” Charlie furrowed his brow, tilting his head in curiosity. “What’s an island?”

“Oh, right, I guess I haven’t ever brought you there. I wasn't able to go much before because d…” Milly’s voice trailed off as her thoughts drifted to the past. Because she didn't trust Shane to actually care for Charlie long enough to stay overnight, so even though she owned a beach house, all her visits were cut short. 

She had eagerly invited them to come along, dreaming of sun-filled days building sand castles and splashing together at the beach, and nights spent together in their tropical home. But Shane refused to bring Charlie, and she had lots of work to do there, so she couldn’t just bring him alone. She had been confined to day trips, spending long hours traveling and usually getting home late in the evening. The few times Shane made the journey to the island, he left Charlie with Marnie while he indulged in drunken escapades at the resort. He never even looked at their beautiful beach house, never cared about the countless hours she spent crafting a thriving tropical farm on the weekends. She wasn’t sure if he even knew about all the time she’d spent in the boiling heat of the volcano, fighting dangerous monsters and gathering precious metals and gems, to ensure their prosperity. She’d stopped trying to tell him about her days when he stopped seeming to care; years ago.

“Mommy?” Charlie’s gentle pat on her cheek jolted her back to the present.

“Sorry, buddy.” Milly brushed a strand of hair behind her ear and focused on his bright eyes. “An island is a magical place in the middle of the ocean. There’s an island south of here called Ginger Island, and I sometimes visit for work. We have a beach house there—it’s a little piece of paradise with a tropical farm right outside. It’s always warm, like summertime, and you can splash in the water just steps from the house!”

“Wow! I love swimming!! Let’s go right now!” Charlie's face lit up like a summer sunrise, his excitement radiating through her.

“Well,” Milly chuckled softly, “right now it’s time for bed, buddy. I came here to tuck you in, but maybe soon, okay?” She carried him through the cozy kitchen, the scent of home-cooked meals lingering in the air, toward Shane's old room, now transformed into a charming little boy's sanctuary filled with toys and colorful decorations. 

***

Chapter Text

Milly strode across the room, her heart quickening at the sound of a knock echoing through her quiet space. She swung the door open, her eyes widening in surprise at the sight of Harvey, a familiar warmth spreading through her at the unexpected visit.

“Hi! I just wanted to check in on you and see how therapy has been going?” He beamed at her, cradling a large brown paper sack that crinkled softly in his grasp. He had a subtle air of nervousness around him.

“Umm, sure, come on in…” She offered a weak smile, feeling a twinge of embarrassment as she glanced around her home. It was still more chaotic than she would have preferred, but at least she had managed to clear away most of the mess; the once overcrowded space now felt less repulsive and smelly, though it still bore the weight of clutter that hinted at her ongoing struggle.

As he stepped inside, she gently closed the door behind him. 

“I uh, brought you this… I thought maybe you could use some real food…” he said, a hint of nervousness in his voice as he shifted the bag in his hands. 

“Oh… uh, thanks…” she replied, a tentative smile breaking through as she took the bag and placed it on the kitchen table with a light thud. Inside, she discovered several neatly packed freezer meals, each nestled in large Ziploc bags. “Harvey… you didn’t have to do this!” Milly's eyes sparkled with surprise and gratitude as she looked up at him. “Did you make all these?”. 

“It’s really no trouble,” he said, waving his hand dismissively. “I often don’t have much time for cooking, and I've been eating poorly for years… However, I caught this episode of The Queen of Sauce about meal prepping and freezer meals, and it inspired me. I decided to devote my day off to cooking everything for the week in one go. I figured, since I was already making all these meals, I could make some extra for you as well. I imagine you haven’t been cooking much, and I want you to eat well too.” He shuffled his feet shyly, a faint blush creeping onto his cheeks, his sincerity evident in his earnest gaze.

“That's… So incredibly sweet of you, thank you…” She tucked her hair behind her ear. “So you watch The Queen of Sauce, too?” 

“What else is there to watch?” Harvey laughed. “Actually, I usually watch the History Channel. But most often I prefer to read rather than watch TV.”

“That's funny, I do too… I almost exclusively watch The Queen of Sauce or the weather. What sort of stuff do you read?” She smiled, possibly for the first time in six months. 

“Mostly medical journals and other non-fiction…” He glanced away bashfully, “I'm not terribly interesting. How about you?”

“I like classic novels-- Jane Austin, Mark Twain, Anne of Green Gables, Little House on the Prairie, that sort of thing…” Her eyes sparkled. 

He smiled softly at her. “You have good taste.”  

“Hey, would you maybe want to stay for dinner? I mean, you basically did all the cooking already, the least I can do is warm it up and share it with you…” 

“That sounds lovely… But I'm not sure there would be enough. It's only portioned for two people.” He frowned regretfully. 

“Well, there are only two of us here…” She looked at him expectantly. 

“What about Charlie?” 

“Oh…” She paused. She had intentionally done her best to keep her situation from becoming common knowledge. “Well, he's actually been living with Marnie for the past two months… He comes over sometimes, and I make sure to visit him at least once a day. However, it's usually easier for him to have dinner there and then do his bedtime routine. Sometimes I eat there and do his routine with him, but today I was extra busy with ancient fruit harvest. Actually, it's been kind of lonely being here by myself…” 

“Oh… Well then, I would love to stay for dinner,” he said with a warm smile, the corners of his eyes crinkling in delight.

She began to put away the meals, storing all the bags in the freezer except for one. The Lobster Bisque, warm and comforting, caught her attention. It was one of her favorite things to eat when she needed a bit of a boost. She poured its contents into a pot, watching as the steam began to rise, filling the kitchen with a cozy warmth.

As they settled into a comfortable rhythm, they spent the entire evening talking about their various interests and preferences, sharing laughter and insights. With each revelation, they discovered just how much they had in common, the conversation flowing effortlessly between them.

“Here, let me take care of that,” Harvey offered, rising from his chair to take her bowl. “You made dinner, so I’ll handle the dishes.”

“Um, what? Harvey, you brought all this delicious food here; I just warmed it up,” she protested, a mix of surprise and amusement in her tone. “Besides, this is my house… I’m doing the dishes.” She took a step toward him, attempting to reclaim the bowl.

“I want to help, really. I don’t mind,” he insisted, holding the bowl just out of her reach while turning on the faucet.

“I mind! I’m not letting you do my dishes after bringing me this amazing dinner,” she said as she placed her hands on his chest, playfully nudging him away from the sink.

“Alright, you win this time…” he conceded with a resigned sigh, finally handing her the bowl, a hint of playfulness in his eyes.

“... This time?” she echoed, locking her gaze with his. Suddenly, her heart began to race at the mere idea of this becoming a regular occurrence.

“Er, I mean… Sorry…” Harvey stammered, a blush creeping up his cheeks, the warmth spreading across his face.

She smiled softly, her eyes sparkling with hope. “I wouldn’t mind there being a ‘next time.’ We could make this a regular thing, maybe once a week, alternating who cooks. Although I could host it every time—I know your kitchen is pretty small…”

His face broke into an enthusiastic grin, lighting up the room. “I’d like that.”

***

Harvey stepped into the farmhouse for the fifth week in a row, nearly losing his balance under the weight of three large paper sacks filled to the brim. 

“Here, let me help you with that,” Milly exclaimed, her eyes lighting up as she lunged forward to grab one of the heavy sacks just as it threatened to topple.

“Sorry about that. I haven't had time to do my meal prepping yet…” He sheepishly glanced at her, his cheeks flushed with embarrassment. “So, I sort of had to bring all the ingredients for dinner instead of mostly prepared and portioned ingredients like last time.” He bit his lip, anxiety creeping into his voice. “I hope you don't mind if I borrow some of your cooking utensils. I promise I will wash them when I'm done, so you won't have to.”

Milly chuckled softly and shook her head. “You goof, of course you can! And I’ll handle the washing; it’s really not a big deal at all. You always clean up after I cook, so why would this be any different?” 

“Well, I wouldn't want to impose… Last time, I prepared dinner during my weekly meal prep, so I wouldn't need to use as many dishes. I don’t want to create more work for you.”

“Harvey, relax! It’s absolutely fine. We agreed that whoever doesn’t cook does the dishes; it's a fair deal. But now I’m curious—did you not get your meal prepping done? What happened?”

“Oh… Well, you see,” he began, running a hand through his tousled hair, “I got a bit carried away working on a model plane this morning. I use my table for meal prep, so I have enough space to chop all the vegetables in bulk… But I lost track of time, and the model plane parts ended up scattered all over the table. I didn’t have a chance to clear it off. By the time I looked at the clock, it was already 4:30, so rather than risk being late for dinner, I just swung by Pierre’s, picked up everything I needed, and hurried straight here…” He wrung his hands nervously, as if he had just confessed to a crime.

“Wait, so you’ve got zero meal prep done for the week, and you brought everything here? Like, everything for the whole week? Even the Ziploc bags?” She tilted her head slightly, processing the information.

“Yes…” His brows knitted together, worry etching lines across his forehead. “I hope that’s not a problem. I’m really sorry I wasn’t better prepared. I may also need to use one of your refrigerators until I go home…” Guilt washed over him, evident in the way his shoulders slumped.

“Well, why not do your meal prep here? I don’t want you going hungry all week just because you chose to come to dinner instead of prepping. I’ll help you; we could knock it all out together pretty quickly.” Her smile was warm and inviting, lighting up her face.

“R… Really? Are you sure? That will mean a lot of extra dishes…” He gazed at her in astonishment.

“Why not? You’re always doing things for me. Let me help you for a change!” she beamed, her enthusiasm infectious.

He couldn't help but smile back, his heart soaring at the sight of her joy. It seemed like Milly was finally beginning to return to her old, vibrant self—the happy, lively person he remembered before she became burdened by sadness. He would do anything to keep that smile on her face. “Alright, that would be great. Thank you very much…”

After a brief tour of her cozy kitchen, where sunlight streamed through the window, illuminating gleaming pots and pans, they set to work chopping, mincing, and measuring vibrant vegetables and fresh ingredients.

As they moved around each other, their laughter echoed through the room, dancing between the chopping boards and the stove. Harvey had introduced her to his favorite jazz music, and soon the soulful melodies filled the air from the mini jukebox in the living room, setting a classy backdrop for their culinary adventure.

As Harvey stared at his nearly finished meal nestled in a Ziploc bag, a furrow formed on his brow, seemingly puzzled.

“Is something wrong?” Milly inquired, brow raised, her curiosity piqued.

“No, I’m just mulling over how to do this… The meat should really be rubbed with salt to bring out its flavor… but I left all my seasonings at home, so I’ll have to wait until I get back to add it. Yet, if I put it in the marinade now, it’ll be rather soggy by the time I take it back out…” 

Milly blinked at him for a moment, then, with an amused smile, reached into the pantry and placed a container of salt in front of him.

He looked up at her in surprise. “But this is your—”

“Harvey, it’s just salt. Use it. Honestly, if there’s anything you need and I have it, feel free to take it. I didn’t plant as many crops this spring, so I don’t have as many spring vegetables as I usually do. I guess I was a bit depressed…” She briefly looked away, her smile faltering. “But I have most staple items here: fresh eggs, milk, flour, rice, oil, sugar… A lot of it I produce right here on the farm. I even have a mill to refine my own

 grains and sugar…” She shrugged, her tone lightening. “Truly, I supply almost everything you can buy at Pierre’s… just without the markup,” she chuckled lightly.

“You’re amazing!” he blurted out, heat flooding his cheeks. “I mean… uh, thanks… for the salt…”

She felt warmth color her cheeks in return. “You think I’m amazing?” Her voice was hopeful and soft.

He hesitated for a moment, searching her eyes before replying, “Yes… I do. You are amazing; that’s simply a fact.” His gaze held an intensity that made her heartbeat quicken. If she didn’t know better, she would have thought she saw something more in his eyes—something that resembled awe, or even… love.

“Thank you…” she breathed, feeling a flicker of warmth in her heart. It had been a long time since anyone had offered her a compliment—especially a man… No, no, no. She reminded herself firmly that he was her friend, nothing more. Refocusing on the carrots she was chopping, she cleared her throat. “By the way… I don’t want to put Pierre out of business or anything, but I know he closes pretty early, basically by dinner time, so if you ever need something last minute and he's closed, you can always call me, and if I have it, you can come over or I'll bring it to you.”

“That's incredibly kind of you to offer… but you truly don’t need to go out of your way for me. I couldn’t bear the thought of taking away from your livelihood; you work so hard and absolutely deserve to be compensated fairly for all the effort you put in.”

“Okay, then I'll sell it to you at wholesale price; that way, I’m not losing anything,” she said with a lighthearted laugh, her eyes sparkling with warmth. “Honestly, though, it's really not a big deal. You’re my friend, and I want to do nice things for you. It makes me happy,” she added sincerely, her voice softening with genuine affection.

“Well, I’m glad that I can be your friend,” he replied, a gentle smile gracing his lips, his eyes reflecting a deep sense of appreciation.

He truly was an incredible friend. He had been a steadfast presence during her darkest, most painful moments, witnessing her vulnerability and never faltering in his support. He always made an effort to help her feel cherished and cared for, and that meant the world to her.

As she finished slicing the last carrot, she turned her attention to the next ingredient. She and Harvey reached for the potatoes simultaneously, their hands brushing against each other, igniting a flutter of unexpected sensations that coursed through her. She jerked her hand back as if it had been scorched, her cheeks flushing as she met his gaze.

“Sorry, you go first,” he said, looking down at the ground, his usual composure momentarily faltering.

A rogue lock of wavy hair tumbled over his forehead, and she felt a powerful urge to brush it aside, as it framed his face perfectly. Suddenly, she became acutely aware of just how handsome he truly was. His glasses accentuated his dark hazel eyes, which took on a vivid green hue when he blushed or grew flustered. His hair, slightly disheveled, lent him an air of youthful charm, making him seem more approachable and relatable, a contrast to the stiffness and professionalism most came to expect of a doctor. A longing welled up inside her, wishing she could run her fingers through those soft wavy locks.

She found herself wondering how he would look in casual clothes. Today, on his day off in early summer, he was still dressed in the same dark green suit. The only other outfits she had seen him in were his blue trench coat during winter, the light blue suit from the flower dance, and the teal scrubs he donned while delivering Charlie. Well, and the rather embarrassingly short swim trunks she caught him wearing once at the island… She did her best to forget about those. She imagined him in a V-neck T-shirt, perhaps a forest green that would make his eyes shimmer, paired with dark blue jeans. There were countless combinations that would undoubtedly suit him perfectly…

What was happening to her today? It felt as if her mind was caught in a web of distraction. Why was he so captivating? Why did just a fleeting touch send such a pleasant flutter through her stomach?

“...Or I could go first, I suppose…” he suggested, his voice awkward as he reached for the potatoes. She jolted back to the moment, realizing she had been staring at him, lost in thought.

Panicking, she made the exact wrong move, lunging for the potatoes and inadvertently grasping Harvey’s hand instead. His eyes widened in surprise as they flickered up to her, and her face blazed crimson with embarrassment. “Sorry!” she blurted out, releasing his hand with a clumsy gesture.

He let out a light-hearted chuckle, his smile warm and teasing. “You know, if you wanted to hold my hand that badly, all you had to do was ask.”

Was he flirting with her? No, that couldn't be right… he was likely just making a joke. How was she meant to respond? Admitting she wanted to hold his hand was certainly out of the question. “I, uh… Sorry, my brain just short-circuited. I don’t know what’s wrong with me. I just need a potato for this meal,” she said hurriedly, gesturing to the Ziploc bag in front of her filled with carrots and spring onions.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable. I was only joking,” he replied, his blush deepening as he picked up a potato and handed it to her.

“No, it’s okay… thanks,” she said, carefully taking the potato from his hand and avoiding any further contact.

The rest of the evening unfolded with a sense of ease. They chatted comfortably about the books she had been reading, the intricate model plane he was constructing, her busy days on the farm, and a myriad of other topics. Conversation flowed effortlessly with him; he was an excellent listener and an engaging conversationalist. Every moment spent together felt natural and unforced. She never felt embarrassed to share her interests, and he seemed genuinely fascinated, never passing judgment on her passions, even when they weren’t in line with contemporary trends.

After dinner, Milly walked over to the sink, confronted by a sizable pile of dishes waiting to be cleaned.

“Here, you helped me whip up all that food, let me lend a hand with the dishes,” Harvey offered, his tone genuine.

“Alright, I suppose that’s fair,” she replied, her voice laced with gratitude.

As he grabbed a towel and began drying the dishes while she washed them, she couldn’t help but think of the contrast of this to her marriage. Shane rarely offered to help with such tasks. The only consistent assistance he provided was with the chickens; everything else was her responsibility. Occasionally, he helped fix fences, and there were a couple of times early in their marriage when he ventured to water the crops or feed the animals, only to realize that the sprinklers and auto feeders managed those tasks. He quickly stopped offering to help after that. He simply assumed she had everything under control, never inquiring about her needs or desires. Even during her pregnancy and the postpartum period, he hadn’t stepped up to aid her with cleaning tasks unless she begged. His contribution usually consisted of trying to create less mess, opting for paper plates to avoid dishwashing altogether. 

In stark contrast, here was Harvey, making her feel supported in the simplest of ways, and it filled her heart with a warmth she had longed for.

It was refreshingly uplifting to have someone in her life who was simply present for her, always eager to lend a hand. They weren’t even a couple, yet he was more attentive and supportive than her husband had ever been. A part of her wished he could come over for dinner every night. Their conversations flowed effortlessly, and he had a remarkable knack for making her laugh with his delightfully awful puns and endearing dad jokes. They shared a wealth of interests, and he introduced her to captivating new experiences, like the soothing melodies of jazz music. She reveled in listening to him passionately discuss his model planes; his enthusiasm radiated like sunlight, filling her with warmth and comfort. Whenever he was around, the weight of sadness and loneliness seemed to evaporate, allowing her to escape and simply be in the moment with him. He had become a safe harbor she could turn to whenever she needed companionship...

“Where does this bowl go again?” He asked, interrupting her musings as he finished drying it, his eyes shining with sincerity.

“In the cupboard to the right of the stove. Thanks,” she replied, a soft smile blooming on her face. It was the little, seemingly inconsequential gestures that revealed how much he truly cared. He wanted to ensure that the bowl found its rightful place; that she wouldn’t have to tackle a mountain of dishes all by herself; that she had a decent meal at least once a week. His persistent check-ins, the way he asked how she was doing, how she was feeling... even on the days he couldn’t visit, his texts would find their way to her, a balm for her soul. He probed into her hobbies and interests, and then he genuinely listened. Someone who didn’t truly care wouldn’t bother with such minute details.

Once they wrapped up their work on the dishes, he began gathering the carefully prepared meals into the large paper sacks to take home.

“Can I walk with you?” she blurted out, feeling an urgency not to let him leave just yet. The sky was painted with hues of orange and violet as the sun began to set, and she knew they both had an early morning ahead.

“I...” He hesitated, scratching his head sheepishly. “I wouldn’t want to leave you to walk home alone in the dark afterward… it wouldn’t be very gentlemanly of me.”

“Oh, I’ll be fine, trust me. I can handle myself.” She laughed lightly, adding with mock seriousness, “Anyone who dares to contend with me will answer to my Vampiric Galaxy Sword…”

“Well, of course, I know you’re incredibly strong and brave," he replied, the corner of his mouth twitching upward at the memory of her somewhat frequent visits to the clinic after various mining incidents back when she’d first moved to the Valley. "However, it just doesn’t feel right to leave you to walk home all alone like that.” He glanced at her nervously.

“But how are you going to manage all of that by yourself?” She gestured towards the bags of food on the table with a blend of expectation and concern.

“I made it here with all of it. I’ll be fine.” He smiled, a twinkle of mischief in his eyes. “Though, if you’re that worried, I suppose you could walk me home, and then I could walk you home afterward…” He tapped his chin in thought.

“That’s quite the trek for you…” She mused aloud. “What if I gave you a ride?”

“A ride?” He raised an eyebrow in curiosity.

“Um, on my horse, Luna… we could tuck all your food in the saddle bag and zip you home in about ten minutes, then I’d ride back so you don’t have to worry about me walking alone…”

He considered this for a moment. “Well, I’ve never actually ridden a horse before, but I guess that could work. I suppose you’re not really alone if your horse is with you… And you would get home much quicker as well.”

“Great!” She beamed, grabbing one of the bags as she dashed out the door, determined not to give him a chance to reconsider. He followed her outside, attempting to help as she prepared everything.

“Okay, I’ll mount first to demonstrate, and also since I’ll be steering…” 

He watched intently as she expertly narrated her actions, her movements graceful and confident. 

“Always approach from the left side; that tells her you intend to mount, and she’s used to that. Then, you’ll want to put your left foot in the stirrup and… Well, I guess just take my hand since I’ll be in the way, so you probably can’t reach the saddle horn… Now just pull up and swing your leg over. It’s pretty simple.” She smiled encouragingly, extending her hand and sliding her foot out of the stirrup.

Harvey tentatively took her hand, surprised by the strength of her grip as he hoisted his weight against her small frame. He managed to sit behind her, but as he swung his leg over, he accidentally nudged Luna’s flank, causing her to trot forward unexpectedly. Panic surged through him, and he instinctively wrapped his arms around Milly’s waist, clinging to her as if she were his lifeline.

“Whoa! Easy, girl!” she called, gently pulling on the reins to steady Luna. As the horse slowed, Harvey felt some of his tension ease. “Sorry, I should’ve warned you to be careful. You don’t want to kick or put pressure on her sides, because that’s how I control her movement.”

“Sorry about that…” Harvey mumbled, his voice laced with a nervous edge.

“It’s alright; she’s a really tame horse, so we’re okay.” She lovingly rubbed her hand against the side of Luna’s long neck before turning back to him. “Are you ready to go?”

He nodded, and with a light tap from her foot, Luna began to trot again. Harvey tightened his grip around her waist as he felt the rhythm of the horse beneath him. “I won’t go full gallop, but I’m going to urge her a bit faster, since trotting can be bumpy…” 

He nodded and braced himself, his arms still firmly wrapped around her waist.

As they approached the town, she felt Harvey's arms around her loosen slightly, a subtle shift that signaled the nearing end of their ride. As they arrived at the clinic, his hands moved to rest gently atop her hips, a gentle gesture that made her heart flutter. Despite the warmth of mid-June, with the sun dipping low and a gentle breeze whispering through the air, she felt an unexpected chill creep in, leaving her missing the comforting warmth of his embrace. 

They dismounted, and she eagerly helped him carry the bags of food upstairs and place them in his freezer. 

“Alright, well, I guess I should head home now,” she said, tilting her head to catch his gaze as he closed the freezer door, the sound echoing lightly in the quiet space. 

“Thank you for the ride… and for allowing me to use your kitchen and everything. I'm very grateful,” he replied, a soft smile blooming on his face, illuminating his features in the dim light.

As the moment to leave approached, she found herself at a loss. The air between them felt charged, yet she was uncertain of how to navigate this unfamiliar territory. A handshake felt overly formal given their close friendship, and she wrestled with a growing anxiety over how he might feel about physical touch. She watched him closely, seeking any sign that might guide her.

His feet shuffled nervously beneath him, and it dawned on her that he might be equally unsure. In an impulsive surge of courage, she stepped forward and wrapped her arms around him, feeling the warmth of his body seep into her. “Thanks for coming; I really enjoy our dinners together.”

There was a brief, stunned silence before he embraced her tightly, his warmth enveloping her. “The pleasure is all mine. And thanks again—I truly appreciate everything you've done for me today.” 

She looked up at him, a smile breaking across her face as she reluctantly pulled away. There was an undeniable sense of peace in his arms, as if they were meant to be there together. Perhaps it was simply her loneliness, maybe she was just touch-starved, but it stirred something deeper within her. “I guess I'll see you later then…”

“Milly…” He called out to her softly as she opened the door. “Um, could you text me when you get home? So that I know you're safe…” His gaze held that same enigmatic expression, now laced with a hint of concern that made her heart skip a beat.

She smiled reassuringly, feeling a warmth spread through her at his request. “Sure, I can do that.”

“Thanks.” He breathed, relaxing slightly, a small weight lifted from his shoulders. “I'll see you later.”

She waved as she stepped out the door, the cool evening air wrapping around her like a gentle embrace, yet she carried the warmth of their moments together with her.

***

Chapter Text

“Good morning, Milly!” Harvey beamed from behind the front desk, his wide smile illuminating the otherwise quiet space. “You look lovely today…” A flush crept across his cheeks. She rarely wore dresses, likely due to the demands of her job, but today she was positively radiant in her vibrant yellow sundress, the fabric catching the light and making her seem as if she were glowing. He found it difficult to tear his gaze away.

“Oh, thanks.” Her own face turned a delightful shade of crimson. “I’m actually on my way to meet Leah at the saloon for lunch. It’s been way too long since we’ve had a chance to catch up.”

“I’m really glad to hear that. Spending quality time with friends is vital for your mental health…” He hesitated, then added, “Sorry, I didn’t mean to treat you like you’re just a patient… I’m just genuinely happy to see you thriving and enjoying life again…” He nervously scratched the back of his head.

She laughed, a sweet, melodious sound that made his heart flutter. “Thanks! I thought I’d bring some coffee to my other friend too.” With a smile, she leaned forward, handing him an insulated travel mug over the counter.

His eyes sparkled as he accepted it. “Well, you’ve just made my day. Thank you; your coffee is easily the best in town.” 

“You’re so sweet, but I’m sure my coffee isn’t any better than Gus’s,” she said with a teasing lilt in her voice. “Maybe someday I’ll make you do a taste test to see if you can even tell the difference!” Her laughter danced through the air.

“Oh, I guarantee I could tell! Trust me, I know your coffee.” He adopted a smug look before quickly backpedalling, adding, “Er, I mean, I’m just a bit of a coffee connoisseur, you see…” 

She chuckled heartily, her laughter infectious. “Well, you’re probably right about that, considering I've been bringing you coffee almost daily for the past few weeks. It's just hard not to enjoy that look of pure joy on your face—it’s like taking Charlie out to the chicken coop; it never gets old!” She shook her head, and once again, Harvey felt himself blush furiously.

“Right, well… it truly is my favorite. So, thank you once more…” He held the mug close, practically hiding behind it.

“I should really get going so I’m not late. I’ll see you tomorrow for dinner, right?” She smiled brightly, her heart fluttering with anticipation.

“Of course, 6 o’clock as usual. And I’ll be sure to return all your travel mugs as well,” he assured her, strolling around to the front to hug her goodbye, their new ritual which had grown comfortable over time. He wrapped his arms around her, holding her close for just a moment, careful not to linger too long.

As she stood in his embrace, Milly found herself reluctant to let him go, a feeling that had become increasingly familiar. There was something magical about his hugs—the warmth and safety they exuded were intoxicating, and she yearned for that comforting touch every time she saw him. It was becoming harder to admit to herself just how often he occupied her thoughts. She caught herself texting him about moments from books she was engrossed in, eagerly asking for updates on his latest model plane project, or sending him amusing pictures of Charlie and snippets of his witty remarks. He had woven himself into her life, becoming one of her dearest friends, the person she felt she could confide in about anything.

With a reluctant goodbye, she stepped out into the bright sunshine, heading toward the familiar saloon. As she entered, she settled into their regular table in the cozy corner across from Leah.

“You look chipper today. What’s got you in such a good mood lately?” Leah’s eyes sparkled with curiosity.

“Oh… Uh, nothing, really, just feeling better recently, that’s all.” Milly bit her lip to suppress a smile.

“Mmmhmm… And I’m sure it has nothing at all to do with Harvey?” Leah’s gaze turned teasingly suspicious.

“Harvey?” Milly nearly choked on her water. “Why would it have anything to do with him?” 

Leah smirked knowingly. “Well, he’s standing right behind you with a bouquet of flowers…”

Milly's face turned an even deeper shade of red as footsteps approached. “Wait, really?” she mouthed, her eyes wide with surprise.

Leah nodded, a mischievous gleam sparkling in her eyes as she gestured for Milly to glance behind her.

Quickly, Milly straightened her posture, adjusting her dress and smoothing her hair before turning around, only to find Gus standing there, ready to take her order.

“You don’t need to tidy yourself up on account of me…” Gus winked, prompting Leah to burst into a fit of cackling laughter.

Milly shot a glare at Leah. “That was not funny,” she hissed, trying to maintain her composure.

“On the contrary, I thought it was downright hilarious!” Leah laughed, clutching her sides.

“Alright, I’m just gonna go…” Milly stood abruptly.

“Wait, I’m sorry! Don’t go!” Leah reached out towards her in a futile attempt to stop her.

Milly shook her head, sitting back down as they both placed their orders with Gus.

Once he left, Leah turned back to her, a serious expression settling on her face. “Okay, but let’s be real. You know you’re totally falling for him…”

“I most certainly am not! He’s just a good friend. We have dinner together sometimes, he’s nice— that’s all it is.” Milly took a sip of her water, trying to convince herself.

“Do you even hear yourself? You have dinner together every week! You cook for him twice a month and bring him coffee almost daily,” Leah pointed out, an eyebrow raised.

“Well I’m having lunch with you right now! We get together all the time, and I’ve cooked for you plenty of times, too. I bring you freshly picked salads pretty regularly, plus whatever ‘sculpture-worthy’ driftwood I find while fishing, also fresh goat cheese, and muffins, and aged wine... Does that mean I’m falling for you?” Milly shot back playfully, cocking her head in defiance.

Leah rolled her eyes so hard she could feel them starting to pop out of their sockets. “No, because you’re super straight and we’ve been friends for years. Milly, this is a man who you find attractive-- and don’t even bother trying to deny that because it is painfully obvious…” She held up her hand as Milly opened her mouth to refute her statement, then promptly closed it. “And you stopped hanging out with him once you got married, even though it seemed like you were pretty good friends before you got married.” She took a deep breath. “Don’t you see how this is completely different? I’ve seen the way you look at him, and it’s way differently than how you look at me… or well, anyone, really.” Leah shook her head. 

“Nope. I don’t know what you’re talking about.” She turned to thank Gus as he brought their food to the table. She hoped that the arrival of their food would signal the end of this conversation, but unfortunately for her, Leah wasn’t the type to just let things go.

Leah sighed heavily. “You’re completely in denial. Alright. How about a little reverse psychology then? I refuse to let you date him; you’re not allowed. It’s clearly too soon, and I won’t let you go breaking that poor man’s heart. You need to be absolutely certain that you’re over Shane and truly ready to move on before you even think about dating Harvey. You can’t lead him on like this, so stop inviting him over for dinner and bringing him coffee until you’ve figured out your feelings. No more hanging out with him until you’re sure you actually like him.”

“I’m not leading him on,” she replied, taking a bite of her spaghetti. “He knows I only see him as a friend. If I suddenly tell him to leave me alone, he’s going to think I hate him or that I don’t want to be his friend. That would just be rude. How would you feel if I suddenly stopped hanging out with you for no reason?”

“You’re infuriating,” Leah muttered, shaking her head in exasperation.

“Honestly, though, after what Shane did, it’s hard to imagine ever being able to trust anyone ever again, let alone falling in love with someone. I’m not interested in love right now,” she sighed, her expression turning heavy with the weight of her thoughts. “It’s terrifying to even think about falling in love again. I’m just not ready.”

***

The night after the Stardew Valley Fair, Year 5

Milly stepped into the house, slumping against the doorframe in exhaustion as she removed her boots. Shane sat on the floor behind the couch, blocking the path to the bedroom with a bottle clutched loosely in his hand. 

She squeezed her eyes shut, took a deep breath to stave off the anger bubbling within her, and carefully stepped over his legs to head toward the bedroom. But before she could escape, he seized her waist, tugging her down into his lap.

“Hey, baby… Marnie has Charlie tonight… How about we make it a night to remember?” he whispered in her ear, his breath heavy with the pungent, stale scent of alcohol. 

“You’re drunk,” she grumbled, using the edge of the couch for support as she pulled herself up and made her way to the bedroom.

He stumbled after her, as she wearily began to remove her clothes, attempting to shed the weight of the day. “Don’t be like that, baby. I just wanna love you…” he said, wrapping his arms around her waist from behind and pressing his lips against the sensitive skin of her neck.

She turned and pushed him away forcefully, sending him sprawling onto the bed. 

“Damn, alright, we can play hard if that’s what you want,” he hiccuped, his slurred words sloshing like the drink he’d left abandoned on the living room floor.

“I’m not playing! You’re drunk again! You’ve been drunk every night this week, and today was the fair! It’s the busiest day of the entire year for me, and you know that! But instead of helping me, you took refuge in a bottle, leaving me alone to take care of Charlie while getting everything ready for the fair on top of all my regular chores. So no, I’m not interested in ‘loving’ you right now!” Her voice was clipped, each word laced with frustration.

“Well, if you’re not giving it to me, then who are you giving it to?” he slurred, a sense of accusation creeping into his tone.

“No one! Why on earth would you think I’m cheating on you?! I’ve never once cheated on you. You’re so freaking insecure!” she shouted, her emotions spilling over. “Honestly, beyond just having a moral compass, it’s not like I even have time to cheat. You’re being ridiculous.”

“It’s the doctor, isn’t it?” he scowled, his jealousy manifesting into anger. “That good-for-nothing--”

“What? Harvey?! You’ve got to be kidding me! I hardly even talk to him!” she exclaimed, shaking her head in disbelief. The last time they interacted outside of town festivals felt like a distant memory, a fleeting moment lost in time.

“I always knew you liked him better than me… Probably because he’s all smart and stuff… and I see the way he looks at you! All googly-eyed… And he’s seen you naked too!” he shouted, his voice twisting into a whimper.

“What in the hell are you talking about? None of that is remotely true! Yeah, he saw me naked a few times… because he’s a doctor and he was delivering your baby!” She threw her hands up in frustration. “And you weren’t even there! You sat outside the whole freaking time when I needed support, when I was vulnerable and in pain. You couldn’t handle it, so you had to step out… You abandoned me! At least Harvey was there for the birth… Otherwise, I would have been completely alone!” The words spilled out, raw and unrestrained, like a dam bursting under pressure. She had never dared to express these feelings before, but the anger surged, forcing the truth to spew out of her mouth like vomit; too toxic to keep inside any longer.

“Yeah, well, maybe I should just disappear altogether. I’m sure Harvey will be right there for you the second I’m gone.” He turned on his heel and stormed out, leaving Milly reeling. As the door slammed shut, she felt the weight of her words --Their worst fight on record hanging in the air, thick and suffocating.

***

Shane slinked back into the house the next evening, nearly a full 24 hours after their explosive fight. He looked like he’d ventured to Hell, with dark bags under his eyes and an aura of misery clinging to him.

“Where did you go?” Milly asked softly from her seat in the armchair, concern mingling with frustration. She didn’t want to fight anymore; she was already emotionally exhausted.

“Nowhere, don’t worry about it,” he mumbled, his voice a hollow echo of its usual self, as he sulked off to the bedroom.

She followed him. As he peeled off his shirt and tossed it to the floor, she instinctively picked it up to throw it into the hamper when a peculiar scent wafted to her nose. It was a mix of flowery perfume layered with his familiar odor of sweat and alcohol. 

Milly turned to him, her gaze sharp and questioning. “Shane… where did you go last night after our fight?”

“To the saloon…” he answered, his posture slumped, clearly hoping to dodge any more questioning.

“All night and then all day?” she pressed, raising an eyebrow in skepticism.

He swallowed hard, the silence thickening between them.

“You wouldn’t even answer my calls, and I was getting worried…” Milly’s voice trembled as she gripped his shirt tightly, her knuckles white. “You had to have slept somewhere, and I know you weren’t with Marnie. Where were you?”

“In the city,” Shane murmured, his eyes closing as he bit his lip, the weight of his shame visibly pressing down on his shoulders.

“You went from the saloon to the city?” She searched his face, confusion washing over her. “That doesn’t make any sense. Did you get a hotel or something?”

“Something like that… Don’t worry, I didn’t spend your money,” he replied bitterly, his voice barely a whisper, filled with an undertone of desperation.

“I don’t care about the money, Shane. I want to know why your shirt smells like spring flowers!” Milly huffed, the scent of betrayal clinging to the air between them.

“I cheated on you! Okay? Is that what you wanted to hear?” he blurted out, tears streaming down his cheeks, desperation mingling with his remorse. “Are you happy now?”

“...What?” The ground felt unsteady beneath her, and the world around her began to whirl like a storm. She grasped the dresser as she struggled to maintain her balance.

“There was a girl… A tourist. She stayed late at the saloon after the fair. She hit on me, and I was just so drunk and angry… She drove me to her apartment in the city. I’m so sorry. This is the worst thing I've ever done in my entire life,” he sobbed, burying his face in his hands as if trying to erase the memory of his actions.

“Get out.” Her voice cut through the room, low and steady but laced with pain, the tears burning fiercely in her eyes as she hurled his shirt at him.

“Milly…” he murmured, looking at her with a heart-wrenching mix of misery and regret, the shirt clutched in his trembling hands.

“We're done. I don’t care where you go or what, or… who you do. Just get the hell out of my house!” She stepped into the living room, opening the front door with a resolve she didn’t quite feel.

He slipped on his shirt as he moved toward the threshold, pausing just for a moment to glance back at her. “I’m so sorry,” he whispered, his voice barely audible against the crickets and frogs croaking in the night, before he vanished into the shadows.

***

Milly knocked on the door of the Mayor’s house, the sound echoing in the stillness as he opened it and ushered her inside.

“I want a divorce,” she stated plainly, her voice devoid of warmth, like a winter’s chill.

“Whoa… That’s a serious decision that you can never undo… Are you sure that’s what you want?” Lewis’s brow furrowed as he studied her, concern etched across his features.

She felt the dam within her break as tears streamed down her cheeks. “I’m miserable! He never helps me; he’s never there for me, he’s always drunk, and now he…” Her words caught in her throat; she couldn’t bring herself to say them out loud as a fresh wave of anguish crashed over her. “He did it on the night of the fair… Of all times…”

Lewis gently placed a hand on her shoulder, grounding her with his presence. “Alright, I understand. All you have to do is sign this, and your marriage will be over.” He guided her over to his ancient wooden desk, pushed up against the wall, and retrieved a form from the file cabinet.

“Doesn’t he have to sign too?” she asked, wiping the tears from her face, seeking clarity in the fog of her heartache.

“No. Once either of you files for divorce, the marriage contract is terminated. It takes two to make a marriage, but only one to break it.” Lewis sighed, recognition flickering in his eyes. “And it sounds like he already has.”

She picked up the pen, its weight heavy in her hand. Flashes of their memories rushed through her mind—their first kiss during the Tunnelers game, his tender words whispered to her belly when she was pregnant, the way she comforted him on the day his most precious chicken died… 

“I can’t…” The pen slipped from her fingers, clattering to the ground as she broke down, sobbing into her hands.

“It’s a big decision. Maybe you should talk to him and see if it’s possible to work things out. You can always come back when you’re certain,” Lewis said soothingly, offering her a lifeline amidst the turmoil.

“Okay…” She nodded, though uncertainty loomed heavily over her as she left his house.

In the months that followed, she returned to Lewis’s office every two to three weeks, each visit marked by the same helplessness. His drinking only worsened, his self-esteem crumbling, dark shadows dancing behind his eyes since the betrayal.

He couldn’t forgive himself, couldn’t move past the weight of his choices, and couldn’t muster the will to be better. Yet, every time she confronted him with the threat of divorce, the words felt hollow in her mouth. Deep down, she knew she couldn’t go through with it. She’d tried three more times, each attempt failing, though she felt as if she were being swallowed by the void of their fading connection. 

***

Chapter Text

There was a soft knock on the door, and Milly couldn’t suppress the grin that spread across her face as she hurried to open it. 

“Hey, Harvey! Come on in!” 

“Thanks!” he replied, returning her smile with his own warm one. Their weekly dinners had become a cherished routine over the past two months. 

“Charlie’s here today. I think he’s going to be moving back in with me soon… I’m finally starting to feel like I’m getting back to normal,” she said, her eyes sparkling with hope. 

“That’s fantastic! I'm so glad to hear that!” His smile widened, and he enveloped her in a brief but comforting hug. “So, where is the little guy?” 

“He's just playing in his room… I think he’s been missing it up there,” she responded, her voice filled with affection. 

“Ah, well, I’ll go say hi while you finish up,” he said, the corners of his mouth curling into a playful smile as he headed for the stairs. 

After setting the table and putting the finishing touches on dinner, Milly called up the stairs, “Hey, dinner’s ready!” 

When silence met her call, she climbed the stairs and found Harvey sitting on the floor, cross-legged, completely engrossed in a make-believe dogfight alongside Charlie, who was animatedly maneuvering his toy planes as they swooped and dove. 

Milly felt her heart swell as she watched the unlikely duo. Clearing her throat to announce her presence, Harvey jumped slightly at the sound. “Oh, sorry! I didn’t realize you were there!” He scratched his head, his cheeks tinged with a hint of embarrassment. 

“It’s alright,” she replied with a chuckle, her heart fluttering. “Someday, you'll have to show him your model planes... but maybe when he's older. I’d feel awful if he broke them.” She laughed lightly, imagining the chaotic delight the two would bring into their future. 

He blushed at the thought, the notion of their bond lasting through the years making him feel hopeful and almost giddy. 

The trio made their way downstairs and gathered around the dinner table, where the conversation flowed effortlessly. Charlie animatedly talked to them all about chickens and cows, and a slew of other random silly topics. Things only a 3-year-old could dream up. 

After dinner, Harvey did the dishes, and as he was finishing up, he felt a little tug on his pants. 

“Harvey, can you read me this?” Charlie was looking up at him with big green eyes, holding a book about airplanes. 

He grinned, “Absolutely, little man!” Charlie jumped up and down and took Harvey's hand, dragging him upstairs. 

Milly smiled; she couldn't help it. She couldn't help the way she found herself looking forward to every Saturday night, how she loved seeing how well he got along with Charlie, how he was so kind, compassionate, and surprisingly funny, as she had come to find out. He made her feel warm and safe. He accepted her as she was. He never made fun of her for the things she liked, even when they differed from his preferences, though there weren't many things they disagreed on. 

After tidying up for about 20 minutes, she decided to go upstairs and check on Charlie and Harvey. 

Her heart turned into a puddle as she stood in the doorway. Harvey was sitting in the rocking chair with Charlie in his lap, cuddled up against him, fast asleep. Harvey was still looking at the airplane book, mumbling to himself about what types of planes were in the pictures. After a moment, he looked up and smiled as he noticed her leaning against the doorframe. 

“I guess he was pretty tired… He seemed a bit wired when we first came up here, but once I started reading, he just settled down and then fell asleep.” Harvey looked down at Charlie, smiling lovingly at him. 

Milly’s breath caught in her throat. It seemed like Shane was never able to get Charlie to sleep. He was good at riling him up, tossing him around, and doing “guy stuff” with him, but when it came to bedtime, Milly always had to take over. Harvey didn't even try to put him to bed, and Charlie apparently felt so comfortable with him that he just passed out in his lap. 

A wave of emotion crashed over Milly as she realized she was falling hopelessly in love with Harvey. The scene before her resonated with a deep yearning—a life she had always dreamed of, now unfolding right in front of her. Yet, that realization was both exhilarating and terrifying; she felt herself walking a precarious edge, setting herself up for inevitable heartbreak. After all she had endured in her last relationship, the worry of experiencing that pain again loomed large, and she knew she needed to guard her heart. 

“You can put him in his bed... You don’t have to keep holding him. I’ll just let Marnie know he’ll be staying here tonight,” she said, mustering a weak smile before retreating downstairs. 

A moment later, Harvey followed her down. “Does he need a night light or anything?” 

“No, we—I usually just leave the door open a bit, the light sort of naturally comes from downstairs…” 

“Oh… Alright, I'll go fix that…” Harvey turned and bounded back up the stairs. 

Alone in the moment, Milly reminded herself that there was no ‘we’ to cling to; even when Shane was still around, it had scarcely felt like a ‘we.’ And that was not going to change anytime soon. She had to pull herself together and shield her heart. 

“Alright, he should be good now.” He returned, his face bright with a satisfied smile. 

“You’re really good with him…” she said softly, trying not to lock eyes with him for too long, afraid of what might be reflected in her gaze. 

“I really like kids. I actually considered being a pediatrician for a while, but I decided I preferred having more variety in my practice, being able to treat all types of people... I wanted to help anyone in need,” he confided, his voice filled with sincere passion. 

She caught herself gazing at him with a softness that made her heart flutter for just a fleeting moment before she quickly averted her eyes.

“Milly?”

“Yeah?” She looked up at him, her cheeks warming as she registered the gentleness in his gaze. It felt like a warm touch, sending ripples through her heart.

“How are you?”

“I'm fine…” She shrugged, attempting to project an air of nonchalance that felt fragile.

“No… How are you really? I want you to trust me. I want to understand how you’re doing—if you’re feeling better, if you’re struggling. It seems like things are improving; you’re keeping the house tidy and growing more crops this season…” He hesitated, shuffling his feet awkwardly as he spoke. “Uh, Marnie mentioned the house… I don’t mean to sound judgmental, it’s just a common cue for assessing mental health…”

She nodded, a soft laugh escaping her lips. “It’s okay. I’m just relieved you never saw it at its worst…”

He stepped closer, his earnestness wrapping around her like a blanket. “I worry that you care for others to the point of neglecting yourself… I’m glad Marnie is helping with Charlie; no one should have to bear the burden of parenting alone.”

Why did he have to tug at her heartstrings like this? She found herself wishing he could be the one to help her parent Charlie, but that was a pipe dream. She felt a desperate need to play the part of someone who was getting better. If only she could appear strong enough, then he might stop looking at her in that way, and she could lock away her heart once more. 

She swallowed hard, forcing a weak smile. “It… hasn’t been easy. But I’m much better now than I was a few months ago. I’ve been having Charlie stay overnight a few times each week… We’re trying to ease him back into living here before we move all his things back…”

“And therapy?” His tone was soft, not probing.

“It’s been helpful. I really like my counselor; she offers so many insightful perspectives.” 

“I’m glad to hear that.” His smile was warm and reassuring.

She felt an urgent need to shift the conversation’s direction before he detected the depth of her feelings. “Oh, by the way, I heard this song the other day that I wanted to share with you.” With a flick of her wrist, she pulled out her phone and connected it to the mini jukebox, the opening notes of “All the Things You Are” by the Swingle Singers filling the air.

Harvey’s face lit up with recognition. “Ah, this is a good one!”

“Dang it, I was hoping you wouldn’t know it. I thought I had stumbled upon something obscure,” she laughed lightly.

“You’ll probably find it tough to dig up a jazz standard, I don’t know,” he replied, a playful glint in his eyes as he began to sing along. His voice was surprisingly smooth and rich. She had no idea he could carry a tune. As the beat picked up, he offered his hand to her. “May I?”

A rush of warmth surged through her as she blushed and accepted his hand. Already, her defenses were faltering; it felt impossible to resist him. He gracefully spun her around, taking her other hand and guiding her through the basic steps of East Coast swing. She almost started to get the hang of it—until the tempo unpredictably shifted and threw them off balance.

The jukebox continued its playlist, shifting seamlessly to “Ain't Misbehavin’” by Ella Fitzgerald, and Harvey flashed her a bright grin. “Oh good, this one’s slower; it’ll be much easier to dance to.” 

He led her through the steps, infusing the dance with spins and turns that seemed effortless. With each movement, she began to find her rhythm, laughter bubbling between them as they lost themselves in the music.

“You’re a great dancer,” she admired, her smile genuine.

“I only do swing; I took a basic swing dance class in college just for fun… I know nothing about traditional ballroom dancing or anything other kind of dancing, really.” He chuckled, his laughter mingling with the music. “That class is actually where interest in Jazz began. It was such a blast, probably the most socially engaging experience I’ve ever had. Jazz brings back those treasured memories, and it’s intricate, yet laid-back. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, but it still adds an air of sophistication to any situation.”

She smiled up at him as he brought her back in from a spin. “That’s true, it does feel classy and sophisticated. Though it is a bit hard to take it too seriously with names like ‘Dizzy Gillespie’, ‘Fats Waller’, and ‘Count Basie’. Not to mention all the silly names and topics of the songs.” She giggled.

“See, and that’s part of the fun of it.” He added, “You never know what you’re going to get, a romantic ballad? Something upbeat? A song about cake?” 

“Cake?” He laughed.

“I wouldn’t be surprised.” He shrugged.

As the song drew to a close, he spun her in and dipped her slightly, holding her close, their bodies pressed together. In that moment, the playful atmosphere shifted, and their eyes locked, breaths mingling in the air between them. His smile faded, overtaken by an intensity that gripped them both. He blinked a few times, struggling to contain the rush of emotions that surged through him. She was looking at him with a longing in her eyes that he’d only ever dreamed of seeing. Her ocean blue eyes gazed so deeply into his, her slightly parted lips looking so soft and inviting. He wasn't sure if he could hold back any longer. He'd waited so long for her to look at him like this… and yet he was never fully convinced that she ever would until now. 

She couldn't stop it. She couldn't stop looking at him, she couldn’t stop the rapid thumping of her heart, which was not from the thrill of dancing, but from something far deeper. She couldn't stop herself from falling, cascading, plummeting, for him… She couldn't stop herself from closing her eyes gently as he inched closer and delicately captured her lips with his. The kiss enveloped her in warmth; he tasted of coffee and the Super Meal she had made for dinner. She couldn't remember the last time she had a kiss that didn't reek of alcohol. A kiss this innocent and sweet and loving.

When he pulled away, his eyes searched hers, a hint of uncertainty clouding his features. “Was… that okay? I should’ve asked first…” he stammered, his cheeks flushed in a delightful shade of pink. 

She once again noticed the deep green of his eyes, glowing like emeralds, their brilliance intensified by the blush that colored his cheeks. A wry smile ghosted her lips as she wondered if she was doomed to fall for men with dark green eyes. 

She rose onto her toes, placing her hands gently on the back of his neck, and kissed him back, surrendering to the moment. He wrapped his arms tightly around her waist, pulling her in with a warmth that felt like home, like this was where she truly belonged, here, with him. Eventually, she pulled away, her gaze drifting downward, resting her forehead against his chest. 

“Harvey?” 

“Yeah…” His voice was breathy, thick with emotion.

“I… think I’m falling for you…” she whispered, vulnerability spilling from her heart. “And it scares me.”

He lifted her chin gently, his fingers brushing against her skin, compelling her to meet his gaze. “You don't need to be afraid… I feel the same way about you.” His eyes softened with warmth. “I would never treat you like he…” He trailed off, sensing the unspoken shadow of her past that hung between them, a weight neither wanted to acknowledge fully. 

“There's just… It’s so complicated. I have Charlie… and…” She frowned, the turmoil within her evident. The real reason for her hesitation remained locked away, far too heavy to voice. 

“I love Charlie. That’s not a problem, it’s a bonus.” His expression was tender, a promise shimmering in his eyes. “I want all of you. I want the good days and the bad days; I want to hear about your struggles and hold you when you cry. I want to celebrate with you when you win first place at the Stardew Valley Fair this Fall for the fifth time in a row…” 

A laugh slipped from her lips, the sound lightening the heaviness in the air. She knew it was true; she was far too competitive. 

“I want Charlie along with you, Milly. I want to be your boyfriend… Because you deserve someone who wholeheartedly loves you, flaws and all. Someone who treats you with kindness and respect, who supports you through the storms of life—when you’re sick, stressed, or simply had a bad day… You deserve someone who is there for you, someone who wants to take care of you and help you… Who doesn't make you feel like you're alone…”

No one to talk with

All by myself

No one to walk with, 

But I'm happy on the shelf

“Milly, I hope I'm not out of line saying this, but I saw how Shane treated you… And you shouldn't have to make excuses for bad behavior, you shouldn't feel trapped, like you have to stay with someone out of obligation when they make you miserable. You shouldn't…” He took a deep breath, squeezing his eyes shut. “You shouldn't be with someone who would cheat on you…” 

Ain't Misbehavin’

I'm savin’ my love for you 

“You should be with someone who is completely, hopelessly in love with you—someone who couldn’t even bear to look at another woman for years…” His eyes locked onto hers, desperation and sincerity swirling in their depths.

I know for certain

The one I love

“Harvey…” Her breath caught in her throat, the weight of his confession wrapping around her heart, stunning her into silence. “Years? How… When?”

He looked down, biting his lip, gathering the courage to lay his heart bare. “I think I’ve always loved you, Milly…  from the moment you moved here, I just knew. But if I had to pinpoint a specific moment… it was probably when you walked in on George’s house call. No one had ever stood up for me like that before… You said the kindest things about me, affirming my skills as a doctor when I needed it the most. Honestly, I could have kissed you then, if I’d been a lot braver.” He smiled wistfully. “I wanted to ask you out for months after that. I was too afraid to ask you to dance with me at the flower dance, and then you asked Shane… By the time I finally gathered enough courage to ask you out… I walked into the saloon to see everyone cheering, him holding you close, a bouquet perched on the bar.” He swallowed hard, his Adam’s apple bobbing up and down. 

I'm through with flirtin’

His voice trembled with emotion. “I missed my chance. So I focused on trying to be happy for you. After you got married, I tried to move on; I even dabbled in online dating for a couple of months, but it was… awful. I managed to push you out of my mind for a while, at least mostly. Seeing you happy in the beginning made it somewhat bearable.” His sigh resonated with sadness. “And then you got pregnant.” 

She could see the torment in his eyes. “You came to me for your prenatal checkups, and I watched your relationship unfold up close… Sometimes he seemed involved, but at other times he appeared disconnected, frightened, like he’d rather be anywhere else. But the moment that shattered my heart was when you were in labor. I get that becoming a father is daunting, but he left you. Actually, he distracted you, annoyed you, and then he left you. When things got tough, he walked away, abandoning you in your greatest moment of vulnerability…” 

It's just you I'm thinkin’ of

“...And then came the nights when I watched him stumble home from the saloon, clearly drunk. It became painfully obvious that things weren’t going well between you.” Harvey took a deep, steadying breath, the weight of his emotions heavy upon him. “And then, I was helping the town committee clean up after the fair, and I saw him leave the saloon with another woman.”

Ain't Misbehavin’

I'm savin’ my love for you

“I felt sick… I wanted to punch him, I wanted to run to you and steal you away… I seriously considered telling you, or taking a picture so you could document it for court… And then I remembered that you don't need a court order to get a divorce anymore and you'd probably rather not have to see the evidence… but in the end, I didn't do any of those things… I just watched.”

In the corner

Don't go nowhere

“I watched him hurt you over and over, and it broke me. And then…” his lip quivered slightly as he braced himself for the memory of what came next. “Then I had to tell you that he was gone… I wished that anyone else in the world could have given you that news instead of me.”

What do I care? 

“I couldn’t bear the thought of breaking your heart. It was agonizing to see you in pain… I wished so desperately that I could take it all away… that I could go back in time and man up and ask you to dance… if I’d only had the courage then to tell you how I really felt, then perhaps you would never have had to endure all of that… all those years of suffering…” He drew a deep breath, his eyes reflecting the weight of his emotions.

Your kisses are worth waitin’ for 

“Look, I know this is overwhelming… But I’m telling you all this is because I can’t afford to make the same mistake twice. I can’t let you slip through my fingers again if I finally have a chance to be with you, to treat you the way you deserve, and to show you just how special you are…”

Believe me

I don't stay out late

Don't care to go

I'm home about eight

Just me and my radio

Ain't Misbehavin’

Saving my love for you

As she blinked, a tear slipped down her cheek. Harvey reached up and gently brushed it away with his thumb, his touch tender and reassuring. She struggled to gather her thoughts, her mind reeling from all this new information. Part of her wanted to tell him that she wasn’t worth all of this, another part wanted to push him away to spare him from wasting his affection on her, while the most dominant part of her yearned to wrap her arms around him and kiss him senseless. 

“I… I think I need some time… I need to process everything… I’m sorry,” she finally managed to say, tears cascading down her cheeks like a stream. 

He smiled at her with a tenderness that made her heart ache. “You don’t need to apologize. Take all the time you need. I’m in no rush.” 

“Okay…” she replied softly, a weak smile forming as she looked into his eyes. 

“I should probably head home; it’s getting late,” he said, wiping away her tears once more. “Are you okay?” 

“Yeah… It’s just a lot, and I’m overwhelmed with so many conflicting feelings…” She bit her lip, holding his gaze. “But… I love you, Harvey. That’s one thing I’m absolutely sure of.” 

Hearing her say those words to him—finally, after wishing for what felt like an eternity that she could love him back—filled him with an indescribable feeling: an overwhelming need for her, to touch her, to claim her. Unable to contain himself, he pulled her in and kissed her fiercely. 

She tangled her fingers in his hair, kissing him back with a passion that ignited something deep within her. He was intoxicating; she had never felt such love radiating from another person, nor had she ever been kissed like this before. She craved more, wanting to feel like this every day. The idea of this feeling ending was almost painful. How could she love him this deeply, so quickly? Then a poisonous voice seeped into her mind.

It's the doctor, isn't it? I always knew you liked him better than me. I see the way he looks at you… 

Panic surged through her as she pushed him away, wrapping her arms around herself protectively. “I’m sorry… I’m so sorry…” she sobbed, the weight of guilt heavy in her heart. 

“Hey… hey, it’s okay.” He wiped her tears gently, his voice desperate as he caught his breath. “I’m sorry… I went too fast… Just… hearing you say that you love me after all this time… I…” He sucked in a deep breath, grounding himself again. “I apologize; it’s my fault. I will wait for you to be ready, even if it takes another five years. You’re worth the wait.” 

“I’m not, though…” she cried, shame lacing her words. “I don’t deserve to be with you.” 

He wrapped his arms around her in a comforting embrace. “Yes, you are. And I’ll prove it to you, over time. But I should go home and let you get some rest.” Reluctantly, he let go and walked toward the door. Instantly, she felt the loss of his warmth. A part of her wanted to beg him to stay, but she knew he needed to leave.

 He paused, grasping the handle. “When can I see you again?”

She swallowed; it felt like such a loaded question. She knew he was only trying to respect her boundaries and feelings, but she had no idea how to answer. She wanted to see him. She wanted to see him every day; she wanted him to just never leave. But she was also conflicted and hurt, deep wounds that pierced her soul and ate her up inside. 

“Tuesday.” She blurted out. “I'll bring you some coffee on Tuesday.” 

“Tuesday,” she blurted out, surprising even herself. “I’ll bring you some coffee on Tuesday.” He smiled, his eyes lighting up. “I look forward to it. Goodnight, Milly.” With that, he slipped out into the warm embrace of the summer night. 

***

Chapter Text

Milly stepped into the clinic, the sterile scent of antiseptic mingling with the rich aroma of the coffee in her hands. Harvey sat at the reception desk, a warm smile spreading across his face as he stood up in welcome. He navigated through the back of the clinic to the waiting room door.

“Hey, I’m so glad to see you!” he beamed, his eyes sparkling with delight. He accepted the steaming cup of coffee she handed him, taking a sip that elicited a satisfied hum. “Mm, your coffee is always the best.”

“Well, it’s made with love, so…” she grinned, her heart swelling a little at his appreciation.

Harvey enveloped her in his arms, his embrace comforting and familiar. “I love you so much,” he murmured, the sincerity in his voice warm like a cozy blanket. 

As she rested her head against his chest, her gaze unconsciously drifted around the room, landing on a familiar pill bottle perched on the counter. Curiosity piqued, she wandered over to it, picking it up to examine the stark white label, now torn and obscured.

“I’ve seen this before… it was under the coffee table that day…” she mused, a question bubbling to the surface, “Why do you have it?”

“Oh, that?” He waved a hand dismissively, a nonchalant smile playing on his lips. “I took it back after Shane’s… incident. It served its purpose.” He shrugged, but there was something unsettling in his casual demeanor.

“Its purpose??” Her eyebrows knitted together, unease etching across her face.

“To take care of him…” His tone shifted slightly, a darker undertone creeping in. “I couldn’t stand to see him hurt you. I knew I was better for you, that I would treat you right. I loved you more than he ever could… So, one night while he was drunk, I slipped this into his pocket. I told him it would help him get sober. It worked like a charm—now he’s sober forever, and you get the love you deserve. And I get to have you.” The corners of his mustache curled into a sinister grin that sent chills down her spine.

“No… No, you’re lying! You would never do that! You’re a doctor; doctors take an oath not to hurt people…” She stared up at him, terror reflecting in her wide eyes.

“I didn’t hurt a person… I killed a monster to save the princess,” he proclaimed, stepping closer, his voice heavy with confidence. “I’m your knight in shining armor, and I will love you forever.”

Milly stumbled back, panic rising in her chest. She collided with a chair and fell into the seat, heart racing as he advanced towards her. He grabbed her by the arms, pulling her up toward his lips, but she twisted away, desperation igniting her strength.

“Don’t be that way, baby. I just wanna love you.” His voice morphed into the drunken slurs of Shane’s voice, echoing from that fateful night after the fair.

“No! Get away from me!” she screamed, breaking free from his grip and bolting towards the door, only to realize it was locked. She crumpled to the floor, breathless and terrified as she sank her face into her hands.

“Mommy?” A small, innocent voice broke through her horror.

“Mommy!” 

Milly blinked awake, finding herself in her dimly lit bedroom. Her pillow was drenched with tears and sweat, panic still coursing through her veins.

“You okay, Mommy?” Charlie stood by her bed, clutching his favorite teddy bear, his eyes wide with concern. “Did you have a bad dream? You can hold Teddy…” He offered the bear to her, his innocent warmth a stark contrast to the terror that had just gripped her.

“That's so sweet of you, honey,” she breathed, still trying to steady her racing heart. “I’m alright, though.”

“Okay. Can you get me cereal?” he asked, as oblivious to the darkness she had just escaped as any child should be.

“Sure, peanut. Just give me a minute to wake up, okay?” She attempted to muster a smile, but it felt fragile, like glass.

As he left the room, she rubbed her eyes, trying to shake off the remnants of the nightmare. It was just a dream. Harvey would never do that; he would never hurt anyone. She reassured herself, seeking calm amidst the storm of emotions swirling within. 

For months after Shane’s passing, she had battled the ghosts of her past, plagued by nightmares of Shane lying lifeless in the living room, of his ghostly form returning to haunt her. She had hoped she was moving on—that it was safe for Charlie to return home at night—but maybe she was wrong. Perhaps she wasn’t as healed as she thought. She shuddered at the thought of him witnessing her nightmares; he had already endured too much before Marnie had taken him to live with her. 

***

“Alright, so you finally admit you’re in love with him.” Leah sat casually on the couch, savoring a bite of her delicate raspberry macaron. The farmhouse was filled with the comforting aromas of tea and fresh pastries, a sanctuary away from the storms in their lives. It had been months since their last “Tea over tea” party—they would get together with tas and dainty snacks and desserts when either of them had major news or needed to vent.

“Yes… I’ve fallen so hard, and I don’t know what to do!” Milly confessed, a lump forming in her throat. “He’s perfect… kind, supportive, helpful, smart, funny, and so incredibly patient. He’s literally everything I’ve ever wanted… But I just have all this trauma and guilt and baggage. It’s so unfair to him. I want to be with him, to love him, but then I feel this urge to push him away, because he deserves so much better than me.” Overwhelmed, she buried her face in her arms.

“Don’t you talk to your therapist about this sort of stuff?” Leah asked, a teasing smirk dancing on her lips.

“Well, yeah, but I’m curious what your take is since you’ve known both of them longer than I have… My therapist only knows them through my words. Well, actually, I think she knows Harvey at least professionally, but I’m not sure how well…” Milly shrugged, taking a sip of her tea.

“My take?” A sly grin grew on Leah’s face. “Shane was an asshole. He’s always been an asshole. He treated you like garbage for years, and you just put up with it and made excuses for him. Harvey, on the other hand… he’s got his life together. He’s smart, stable, and way more mentally healthy. He’s a good guy, Milly, and he’s head over heels in love with you. You should date him.” 

Milly let out a heavy sigh, her breath mingling with the weight of unspoken guilt that burdened her heart. “I know… I want to move forward, but the guilt is suffocating. I kissed him, and in my mind, I could hear Shane’s voice saying ‘I told you so.’ It was easy to cast Shane as the villain when his accusations against me of cheating were completely unfounded. But now, knowing that Harvey has harbored feelings for me for years complicates everything. It feels as though being with Harvey is cheating on Shane in some twisted way.”

Leah leaned forward, her brow furrowed with conviction. “But you're not cheating, Milly. Shane has been gone for over eight months. In my eyes, you were divorced the moment he chose to be unfaithful.”

Milly’s expression shifted, uncertain. “Technically, I’m not sure if I actually divorced him or if he was already dead by the time I signed. The only way to find out would be to ask Harvey, and there’s no way I’m going to do that…” She shuddered at the thought.

“Why not? It could provide you with some closure…” Leah shrugged as she took a measured sip of her tea, a hint of optimism in her voice.

“Oh sure, no problem. ‘Hey, honey, how long was my husband dead before you examined his body? Three hours? Great! So, he was definitely dead before I divorced him then.’—that would certainly be a stellar way to start our relationship.” Milly raised an eyebrow, skepticism etched on her features.

Leah’s laughter bubbled up, but she thought for a moment before suggesting, “Wait, doesn’t Harvey keep files on all his patients? Maybe you could sneak into his clinic and carry out a little espionage by reading his file!” Her eyes sparkled with mischief, clearly far too excited about the idea.

Milly stared at her for a moment, processing the absurdity. “So you’re proposing breaking and entering, committing a HIPAA violation, and jeopardizing Harvey’s license and reputation. Sounds like a much better idea...” She counted the potential crimes on her fingers, disbelief lacing her tone.

“Well, when you frame it like that…” Leah chuckled. “But really, you could just ask him to look at Shane’s file. Technically, as far as he knows, you’re his wife and next of kin—it’s a reasonable request.”

Milly pondered the possibility, her thoughts swimming through the implications. In their small town, only Leah and the Mayor were aware of her divorce filing, as it had coincided with Shane’s death. To Harvey, along with everyone else, she was simply a grieving widow, a victim... No one else knew the entire story. They weren’t aware of what secretly haunted her; what she’d done. “That’s true… I’ll think about it. But honestly, I’m not entirely sure I want to know.” A frown settled on her lips.

***

A bright grin spread across Harvey’s face as he heard the cheerful bell tinkle over the door. Stepping through the back entrance into the slightly chilly waiting room, he called out, “Hey, how are you feeling? I missed you…”

Milly couldn’t suppress the smile that blossomed in response. She had missed him, too, far more than she cared to admit. It struck her as silly, but the longest stretch they usually went without seeing each other was merely two days; now, it had been four, and more importantly, it had been four days since they had finally confessed their love for each other.

“Better now…” She swallowed hard as he wrapped his arms around her, the warmth and comfort of his embrace washing over her like a balm, making the chaotic world outside fade away. No one else had ever made her feel quite like this, so effortlessly safe.

Pulling away, he gazed into her eyes with an expression of unbridled love. “I’m glad to hear that.” His eyes glinted as he looked at her, his feelings no longer masked by reservations.

“Here, your coffee, as promised.” She held out the familiar travel mug, her heart fluttering from the way he gazed at her.

“Thanks!” He beamed as he took a sip, relishing the rich flavors. “Mm, your coffee is always the best.” He took a moment to savor it with his eyes closed, but when he opened them, he noticed her expression had shifted to one of horror, her face draining of color.

“Milly? Are you alright?” Concern flooded his voice as he stepped closer to her with urgency.

Tears brimmed in her eyes as she covered her mouth, collapsing to her knees, panic seizing her. “No. No, it’s not real. It can’t be real. It’s not real. It’s not real,” she murmured as if the repetition would ground her, but still her heart rate accelerated uncontrollably.

Quickly setting the coffee down, Harvey knelt before her and cradled her face with his hands. “Milly, what’s going on? Please, talk to me.”

“I can’t…” she sobbed, her voice trembling.

“Is it alright if I hold you?” He asked gently, and she nodded. She needed his soothing presence; the fact that he asked rather than immediately acting regardless of her will affirmed that this was the real Harvey; that she was safe with him.

He situated himself on the floor, leaning back against the counter, and pulled her into his lap, enveloping her in his arms. He rocked her gently, as if she were a fragile child, whispering comforting words in her ear. “I’ve got you. It’s going to be okay.” He encouraged her softly, guiding her to take deep breaths alongside him.

They remained in that cocoon of comfort for several minutes, her breaths gradually evening out. She understood now why Charlie could so effortlessly drift off in Harvey's arms—his voice was like a lullaby, his presence a calming anchor in the storm of her emotions.

“Do you want to talk now?” he asked, his tone still calm, though concern was evident in his face.

“Okay…” She exhaled shakily, her heartbeat slowly returning to something resembling normal.

“What happened? One moment you were smiling, and the next, you were having a panic attack,” he watched her, still holding her securely.

“I…” She hesitated, afraid that revealing the truth might come across as an accusation. But honesty was a sacred principle, one she had cherished even during the darkest days of her marriage. It was the one thing that she and Shane had never faltered on. Even after his infidelity, he’d told her the truth. “I have nightmares sometimes… They’ve been happening less frequently, and I’m working through it in therapy… But I had one on Saturday night after you left…” She breathed out, her vulnerability hanging in the air like a fragile thread.

He held her closer, his heart aching for her pain. “I'm so sorry… That’s just awful. So something here stirred up that nightmare for you?” 

She hesitated, drawing in a shaky breath. “I… Please don’t be mad at me…” 

His fingers gently stroked her hair, a calming rhythm meant to soothe her. “Of course I won't. You can tell me anything.” 

“In my dream, I was bringing you coffee, and then you said the exact same thing…” 

“Should I stop complimenting your coffee then? I didn’t realize it would make you uncomfortable… I genuinely love it…” 

“No… It’s what happened after…” She took another deep breath, her voice trembling. “You had his drugs… The ones he took that day… And you said you gave them to him so he would go away; so that you could have me… You were awful and pushy, not at all like yourself… I was so scared…” 

“Milly, I’m so sorry…” He gently lifted her chin, wanting to meet her gaze. “I’ve often wondered just how much you witnessed that day, and how deeply it would scar you. I debated on how much to share about his death—I settled on just the basic cause of death unless you asked for more information… But perhaps I should clarify a couple of things.” He sighed deeply, struggling with his own emotions. 

“The first thing is that I had no idea what was going on until after you did. I didn’t even realize he was having suicidal ideations again until Leah called me—and by then, it was too late. I would have done everything in my power to help if I had known…” 

“The second thing is about how he died. I believe it was suicide, given the amount of alcohol he consumed and the fact that he chose to take Xanax at the same time, also in large quantities. I confirmed all of this with a blood test. Where he got it from, I couldn’t say, but I certainly didn’t prescribe it to him. I would never have prescribed Alprazolam to someone battling alcoholism—no responsible doctor would. Xanax is a benzodiazepine, typically used for anxiety and panic disorders, but it’s also highly addictive and often abused because it produces feelings of relaxation and euphoria. It’s a Central Nervous System depressant, similar to alcohol. Mixing Xanax with alcohol can be deadly; it amplifies the effects of the alcohol and can lead to alcohol poisoning. Any competent doctor or pharmacist recognizes the dangers and would warn anyone rightfully prescribed it to avoid alcohol at all costs.” He closed his eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath before returning his focus to her. “Milly, I probably made it seem like I hated Shane when I told you how I felt about you. I didn’t hate him. I was jealous because he had you, and I was angry at him for hurting you… But I never once entertained the thought of trying to poison him. I wanted to punch him when I caught him cheating—he definitely deserved that—but I never wanted to kill him. And I didn’t actually punch him anyway; I’m not really the violent type, nor am I all that muscular…” He shook his head; he was getting sidetracked. “The point is, I have no ill feelings toward him anymore. What’s done is in the past… All that matters now is you. I want to ensure you’re okay, that you’re taken care of…” 

She wrapped her arms tightly around his shoulders, clinging to him as if her very life depended on it, and sobbed into his shoulder. “I’m so sorry… You don’t deserve to be caught in the middle of this. You shouldn't have to bear the weight of my trauma, insecurities, and trust issues…” Deep down, she knew that she didn’t deserve him, especially after what she had done.

He held her close for a moment before gently cupping her face in his hands, forcing her to meet his steady gaze. “Milly. Love means placing someone else’s needs above your own, embracing them for who they are, including all their weaknesses, insecurities, trauma, and the heavy baggage they carry. You did that for Shane… you accepted him in all his flaws and helped him pursue sobriety… But he never truly took care of you in return. Perhaps you don’t fully grasp what it truly means to be loved… But I love you, Milly. I love you, despite all the burdens you carry. I want to help you shoulder that load.” 

She shifted in his lap, her heart heavy with uncertainty. “I don’t know if that’s entirely true about Shane… I cared for him deeply… But I’m not sure I really accepted all of him. We fought constantly—over trivial things like how I disliked his music, and significant matters like when he’d come home drunk or when he wouldn’t watch Charlie during fair week… I probably made him just as miserable as he made me. If love is about accepting every part of someone and always prioritizing their needs, then I’ve never truly loved anyone.” She lowered her gaze, the weight of her thoughts pressing down on her.

“I never said that accepting someone means tolerating abuse, making excuses for them, or allowing them to infringe upon your boundaries. And I didn’t say you were required to love every single thing they do.” He paused, allowing his words to linger in the air. “Milly… If we were together, and you were completely exhausted after a long day of work, and I came home, upset because I had a terrible day… What would you do?”

She paused, her brow furrowing in thought. “I would ask you what was wrong and try to help you…”

“And what if it was flu season, and I promised to make dinner, but I had to stay late at work to finish paperwork?” he challenged, a hint of curiosity in his voice.

“I would make dinner myself, maybe even bring it to you, or at least save you a plate,” she replied with a casual shrug, but her eyes were warm and understanding.

“Would you be angry with me?” he pressed, searching her face.

“No… Not unless it became a pattern of empty promises, like if you promised you'd cook every day for a month but never actually followed through,” she said, her voice steady.

“Okay. Now, what about if I had a nightmare due to past trauma I was grappling with? How would you react?” He watched her intently, as if this would reveal something vital.

“I… I guess I’d try to help you feel better. I'd talk you through it, hold you close, whatever you needed… just like you're doing for me right now…” She blinked, suddenly realizing the weight of his questions.

“What if it became a recurring nightmare?” he continued.

“Same thing, I suppose, though I’d likely recommend seeing a therapist… since I’m not really qualified…” she added with a light laugh, attempting to lighten the mood.

He smiled softly, but his expression turned serious as he searched her eyes. “What if I told you that I had an ex-girlfriend who cheated on me while I was in med school? What if I told you that I gave my heart and my virginity to her, intending to propose after graduation? What if I admitted that because of that, I haven't been with anyone since? I felt incapable of being a good boyfriend, convinced that no woman would ever truly want to be with me, and terrified that it would happen again if I let someone into my life.”

“Harvey…” Her eyes widened with concern as she processed his revelation.

He brushed her hair back gently, his fingers lingering. “We all have baggage and struggles, Milly. But that was a long time ago. After years of working with Renae, I climbed out of that darkness. I made it through med school and proved to myself that I could achieve my dreams… Yet, believing that someone could truly fall in love with me, that I could actually be worth their time, was harder. I had resigned myself to the idea that I would remain a bachelor forever once I moved here. I had given up on the hope of starting a family of my own. The single women here seemed either too young for me or simply not the right fit. But then you moved into town.” He smiled, a spark igniting in his eyes. “Do you remember how we met?”

“I just dropped by the clinic; I was trying to meet everyone and get a feel for the town…” She shrugged, still feeling the weight of their conversation.

“I was drowning in paperwork from flu season. It was only my second year going through it, and the stress weighed heavily on my shoulders. Maru mentioned a new farmer had arrived, and I was anxious about transferring your health records, making sure you were set up for an initial visit, and all the intake paperwork I would need to do... Then you walked in. You were stunning, and in that moment, I felt breathless… Your smile melted away my stress, transforming the chaos of my day into something manageable. It’s funny; when you first told me your name was Milly, I had secretly hoped it was short for Amelia, like Amelia Earhart the pilot… But when I saw that it was Millicent on the patient intake form, I was captivated. I wanted to learn more about you. That interaction might have seemed trivial to you, but my entire world shifted that day. I couldn’t help but smile whenever you crossed my mind, which was often.”

“I wish I had realized… I wish I had noticed you…” she murmured, the weight of regret in her voice.

“It’s not your fault; you had no idea because I never found the courage to tell you,” he replied thoughtfully. “I genuinely believed there was no way you could fall for me… that you might think I was either too old or too dull. I was so nervous around you that most of the time, I would just spout random medical facts, like a walking encyclopedia.” He chuckled, and she mirrored his laughter, the tension easing between them. “In fact, this is quite embarrassing, but the day you found me in the dance aerobics class, I was trying to get fit, hoping it would make me more appealing to you… I only managed to go for a few weeks before I accepted defeat. And after you and Shane got together, I figured the only reason you would ever want to talk to me was for medical advice, so I sort of just gave up and kept my distance. You were yet another dream that I wasn’t meant to have.”

“Do you still feel that way? Like I don’t want you, or that you won’t be good enough for me?” she asked, biting her lip, vulnerability shimmering in her eyes.

He contemplated her question, preparing to bare his heart to her. “Honestly, this past weekend felt like a dream… hearing you tell me that you love me… It’s hard to believe it actually happened; that it’s real. I don’t know if I’m good enough, but I do know that if given the chance, I would strive to be the man you deserve. And I truly cherish any opportunity to be at your side, even if it’s just as your friend.” He smiled, genuine warmth radiating from him.

“Harvey?” She looked up at him, her voice carrying a hint of uncertainty. “I’m still anxious about many things… but I truly am in love with you… It’s real. I… I want to be your girlfriend. If you still want me, that is.”

He leaned down, closing the distance between them, and kissed her tenderly, a kiss that spoke volumes of everything unsaid. “I will always want you, Milly. Please be my girlfriend.”

“Okay.” She breathed, a wave of relief washing over her, before returning his kiss, sealing their promise together. 

***