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Jen stifled a yawn as she headed back to her lot. For the past few hours, she had been scouring the island looking for collectibles she could sell. There seemed to be a few particular spots that never failed to disappoint, and the land was rich with frogs and plants of various types. She was beginning to learn the pattern of when and where they typically showed up, which was good for building up some steady cash while off work.

She stepped around the large bushes and froze. A man was standing near her tent, his eyes scanning the large plot of empty land.

‘His style is a bit… strange, but he’s so beautiful. What could he possibly want with me?’ Biting her lip, she slowly approached the man, clearing her throat to get his attention. “Can I… help you?” ‘Crap, I didn’t mean to sound rude!’

He flashed a charming smile. “I apologize, I hope I’m not invading your space. There was a rumor going around that someone had settled down here, living off the land. I suppose I was curious to see if that was true.”

‘There’s rumors about me?? Great’, she bit back a groan. “Um, well, it’s true.”

“Sorry, where are my manners?” He held his hand out to me. “My name is Caleb Vatore. May I inquire as to your name?”

‘He’s so polite, wow.’ She slipped her hand into his, holding back a shiver at how cold his skin felt. “Jen Winchester,”

He gently brought her hand up to his pale lips, pressing them against her skin. The action made the tips of her ears burn, her heart hammering against her chest. “It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance… Jen Winchester.”

The way her name rolled off his tongue like honey made her feel weak in the knees. “Y-Yeah… you too…”

“May I ask what brought you here to Windenburg?” he inquired softly, tilting his head.

“Ah, well…” she rubbed the back of her head with a small, nervous smile. “I was left homeless after my godmother died and I guess… I wanted to start somewhere new.”

“I apologize for your loss,” Caleb rested his hand on her shoulder and a wave of calm rushed over, her heart rate slowing. “Do you have a phone?”

Jen nodded, pulling out the cheap smartphone she had gotten with a pre-paid line. It wasn’t the best, but it was cheap and allowed her to be contacted in emergencies. He asked for it and she hesitantly handed it over, watching as he tapped away. What in the world was he doing?

“There, now you have my number. Do feel free to ring me if you ever find yourself in need.” There was that charming smile again, making her heart flutter in a way it never had before.

“S-Sure, thank you.”

“I’m afraid I must go, but I’m sure we will see one another again quite soon. Until then, farewell, my dear Jen.”

She could only stare at his back as he walked away.

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