Harvest Moon: Lanna's Intermezzo

[Butterscotch]

Okay, read the chapter. I'm starting to get into the story, wondering if Lanna is jealous or just that spoiled. I'm actually leaning towards the latter.

You have to be careful of your tenses. You're writing the story in the present tense, but you occasionally slip up. Here's an example:

It takes her a while to come up with an idea on how to get Mark to start making her daily lunches again. Later that night, she finished writing her plans, and she'll start putting them into effect tomorrow.

It should be finishes. There are a few other examples, and they tend to occur later in the story. I don't like reading in the present tense as it is (personal thing, nothing against you), so these changes are extremely jarring to me.

[Juxapose]

I use the present tent rather than past tense (Which is more common), because according to my writing teacher, the present tense is supposed to be more correct.

Since the narrator is describing the situation as they are happening, it is more fomal to use present tense. However, if the narrator is a character in the story, and he is describing something that has already happened, then you are supposed to be using past tense.

Thanks for pointing out my mistakes in the story. I'll have to be more careful in my spelling and grammar checking when I review the story.

[Butterscotch]

Sept 18, 2008 18:09:23 GMT -5 Juxapose said:

I use the present tent rather than past tense (Which is more common), because according to my writing teacher, the present tense is supposed to be more correct.

Since the narrator is describing the situation as they are happening, it is more fomal to use present tense. However, if the narrator is a character in the story, and he is describing something that has already happened, then you are supposed to be using past tense.

Really? I never knew that. Since most books are written in the past tense I just assumed it was, like, the default setting for a fictional story. Or something. Never gave it much thought.

[Juxapose]

Chapter 3

Lanna's Plan

Mark wakes up to another warm Summer day in Sunny Island. He opens his window to see the bright blue cloudless sky. The fair weather brightens his mood, and motivates him to do his best at the farm. He can tell that Chelsea, who also runs a farm, will enjoy the pleasant weather as well.

Just like clockwork, he goes to the bathroom and prepares himself for the day. After showering, and getting changed into his farming clothes and hat, Mark heads out to the farm, and begins to work. As usual, he starts with his animals, and then his crops. He is grateful to his wonderful stones that makes his job much faster and easier.

After he is done with his daily chores, he checks the time, and sees that it's about time to start cooking. Seeing that Chelsea enjoys his cooking, he plans to continue making the same fish recipe for her. However, he does intend to find out what else Chelsea likes, and try to learn how to cook new recipes for her. He then picks up his tools, and marches over to his house, so he can begin.

“Hi Mark!” Lanna's voice cried out from the distance. As soon as he hears her voice, he freezes in place, and drops his tools out of shock. He turns his head, and looks over to the entrance of the farm. At first, he felt that he might have imagined hearing Lanna's voice. However, there she is, walking towards him with her usual aqua green dress, walking boots, and the frilly barret resting on her head.

As she walks toward him, his heart beats ridiculously fast. He feels nervous seeing her so suddenly, this is the first time that he is aware of that Lanna has entered his farm. Because Mark has been working, he is a bit dirty, and he smells like barn animals. He only wishes that Lanna had given him a fair warning that she was coming over, he does feel a bit embarrassed that he is dirty.

Lanna stands in front of him, and gives him a warm smile. Even though Mark has spoken to Lanna many times before, he feels nervous and lost for words at that moment. But he knows that just saying nothing would be rude, so he says, “H. . .Hi Lanna. What can I do for you today?”

Lanna tilts her head a bit, and smiles for Mark. But deep inside, she is smirking fiendishly, knowing that she already has Mark at the palm of her hand like putty. “Hey Mark, how are you doing? Have you finished your work for the day?”

Mark nods, but he is so nervous, that he couldn't say anything. So Lanna continues, “I have some free time today, so I was wondering if you want to go on that date you keep asking me out to.”

Mark's eyes pop open, and his left eye twitches out of shock. Just as he had given up hope that Lanna would ever accept his invitation to a date, she comes over, and asks him out instead. He pinches himself, thinking that this may be a dream. But he does feel the pinch, so he knows that this is real.

Lanna stands there waiting for an answer. He wants to accept her offer, but he also knows that he planned to be somewhere. “Um, you mean now?” he asked sheepishly. “I would like to, but I kinda have something to do right now, so. . .”

Suddenly, an artery bulges on Lanna's forehead. Her calming smile turns into a frown that seems life threatening. She steps forward and yells, “Are you turning me down!?!?”

Mark sweats nervously, and peacefully gives in. “Who me? No, of course not. I would never turn you down.”

Lanna's frown turns into a smile once again, which relieves Mark. She then grabs his arm and drags him out of the farm saying, “Okay then, lets go to Luke's diner. We can have something to eat, then we can talk for a bit.”

As Mark is being dragged out of the farm, he says, “Wait Lanna, can't this wait a few minutes. I have to wash up, and change clothes, and make a phone call.”

“Oh don't worry too much about it, you look fine!” said Lanna.

“But. . . What about that other thing that I had to do. I need to let someone know that I'm going to be late.” continued Mark.

Lanna smirks, but because she is looking away, Mark can not see it. She is fully aware that Mark is talking about making and delivering lunch to Chelsea. So she says, “Oh, I'm sure you can do that later. After all, it's not like I have a lot of free time on my hands, so lets seize the moment!”

Mark sighs and peacefully gives in. He knows that Lanna normally never has any spare time to go out with him. He'll have to come up with a good excuse, and go over to Chelsea's farm later.

Some time later, Lanna and Mark arrives at Luke's diner. Luke says, “Welcome to my diner, can I take your-” He becomes as stiff as a board as soon as he sees Mark and Lanna entering the diner together. Just as Mark was earlier, Luke is too shocked for words.

As Mark looks at Luke's shocked expression, he scratches the back of his head and says, “Hi there Luke. Can I have a table for two?”

Luke quickly rushes over, and pushes Mark to the back saying, “Excuse me Lanna, I'll need to borrow Mark for a moment.”

As soon as they are out of hearing range, Luke asks, “Mark, what is going on here?”

Mark answers, “Believe it or not, we're on a date.”

Luke nearly faints from shock. Just the other day, he told her to just give up on her. The next day, Lanna came bursting into his diner looking for him. Now Mark and Lanna are walking into the diner together as a couple. There is no measure on how surprised he is.

“You're on a date with the village's pop idol?” asked Luke. “How the hell did you manage to do that? Even Lloyd, Lanna's biggest fan can't get her to talk to him, let alone date him.”

“I don't know how it happened.” admitted Mark. “She just came to my farm, and she asked me out. She wouldn't take no for an answer either.”

“You're kidding!” whispered Luke.

Mark then clasps his hands together, and begs, “Luke, I'm begging you. Make sure that this date goes well. Whatever she wants, make it as best as you possibly can!”

Luke pats Mark on the shoulder and says, “Stop it! You don't have to beg. I got you covered.”

Mark thanks him, and they join back with Lanna. Luke then takes them to a special table he reserves for young couples to have a good time. As they sit together, Mark quickly notices the other guests staring at them, he can even hear some whispering. His face turns red in embarrassment, last thing he needs is for the other guests to make Lanna feel uncomfortable.

However, Lanna pays no mind to the other guests. She places a napkin on her lap, and waits for the menu. After Luke hands her the menu, Lanna asks, “Mark, you don't mind if I order anything I want, would you?”

“Of course I don't mind. Go ahead and help yourself.” insisted Mark.

Lanna smiles, and giggles at how she already has Mark enslaved to her. Luke then walks over to Lanna and asks, “May I take your order?”

Lanna takes a moment to look at the menu and says, “I'll have the lobster special, the special tuna sushi, the herb baked salmon, and some yam pudding. But only a little bit of pudding, I'm on a diet.”

“Very well.” said Luke. He then walks over to Mark and whispers, “Are you sure you can afford all this? She's ordering the most expensive items on the menu!”

“Don't worry, I'll manage somehow.” Mark whispers back. He then orders some spaghetti. Luke then goes to the back to cook their order.

Some time later, Lanna finishes her entire order. Not even a sliver of fish was left over on the plate. As she dabs her lips with a towelette, Mark comments, “Wow, that's some appetite you have.”

Lanna places the towelette on the table and replies, “Well, I was a bit hungry. You see, I didn't get to eat much yesterday.”

After hearing that, Mark hangs his head in shame. He usually makes her lunch every day, but he didn't make her any the day before. Seeing that she has caught him in a vulnerable moment, she begins her plan.

“So Mark, what happened to you yesterday. You didn't come to see me at all.” she asked.

Mark scratches the back of his head trying to find the right words to say. “Well, you see. . . I had to go see a friend yesterday. I guess I sort of lost track of time.”

Lanna knows that he's trying to hide something. Luckily, she knows all about how Mark went over to Chelsea's farm, and gave away the lunch he normally gives her. However, she pretends that she doesn't know anything, and asks, “This friend you're talking about, is she a girl?”

Mark looks away for a moment, and says, “Um, yes she is. She's a farmer just like me, so I was giving her some advice. She is new at the job, so. . .”

Mark then looks at Lanna, and notices her looking sad. He sees a teardrop rolling down her cheek as well. Mark panics and asks, “Lanna, what's wrong!? Why are you so sad!?”

Lanna looks away and says, “Mark, you're so cruel! You always said that you liked me, but now you're seeing another girl behind my back.”

Mark panics even more, and says, “Wait Lanna! Don't get the wrong idea! We just met, I am not seeing her!”

Lanna continues, “Don't worry, I understand. You don't like me anymore because I never have enough free time. After all, that's why you went to go see her, and completely forgot about me. I bet you even made lunch for her.”

Mark sighs. He knows she's right. He felt that Lanna would never go out with him, so he had given up on her to see Chelsea. He tilts his head down in shame and says, “Lanna, I'm sorry. I really do like you, and I would like us to be good friends.”

Lanna looks back at him with her eyes glowing like crystal beads. “You really mean that Mark?” He nods. “So, does that mean you'll continue to make me lunches from now on?”

Mark nods twice and says, “Yeah, just like before.”

Lanna smiles. She then stands up quickly and says, “Okay, date's over!”

“Already?” asked Mark shocked by her sudden outburst.

Lanna nods proudly and says, “Yes, I have to get back to work now. Thank you so much for lunch Mark!” She then walks out of the diner saying, “I'll see you tomorrow at the usual time!”

As she leaves, Mark continues to sit there, unsure of what to do. In a way, he felt cheated, but on the other hand, he feels happy. He then stands up, and cheers out loud, “Yahoo!! I actually went on a date with Lanna! I actually did it!” Everyone else in the diner stares at him, but do nothing to rain on his parade.

Outside the diner, Lanna giggles at how well her plan went. She then pulls out a small bottle of alligator tears and says, “I can't believe it, Mark fell for it! He is so gullible, it's almost too funny. I'll have to thank my manager for those acting classes, because it sure came in handy.”

Mark does go over to Chelsea's farm later that day. However, there wasn't enough time for Mark to cook something for her, so he brought something he ordered from the diner. Paying for all the food left him flat broke, but he is too happy to care.

The next day, Lanna walks around in her usual spot to get some fresh air. She checks the time, and sees that it's about time that Mark arrives with her lunch. For Lanna, this is a moment of truth to see if her plan has worked or failed.

A moment later, Mark arrives and says, “Hey Lanna, sorry I made you wait.”

Lanna looks at Mark and says, “Oh, hi Mark. I'm glad you came!”

Mark then pulls out a lunch box from his backpack, and says, “I made this for you, I hope you'll accept it.”

Lanna takes the lunch, and says, “Thank you Mark, your fish and yam pudding are always the best!”

Mark blushes and says, “I really enjoyed our little date yesterday. Maybe we can do it again sometime?”

“Maybe.” said Lanna.

Mark then waves and says, “Well, I have to get going, see you later!”

Lanna nods, and Mark leaves. She is happy that her plan was a success. But after a moment, she notices something odd. Normally, Mark would go directly to the diner to get something for himself to eat. But this time, Mark is heading to the jungle, the direction where Chelsea's farm is.

Curious to know what's going on, Lanna yells out, “Mark, where are you going!?”

Mark turns around and and says, “I'm going to make a delivery to the other farm!” He then pulls out a second lunch from his rucksack, and shows it to Lanna.

Shock strikes Lanna like a bolt of lightning. Her plan of getting Mark to make her lunch was a total success, but she was not counting on Mark to make lunch for Chelsea as well. She doesn't know why, but she feels bothered by this.

“I'll have to get going, I don't want to be late. See you later!” said Mark as he was about to leave.

“Mark wait!” cried Lanna stopping Mark on his tracks. She then walks up to him, and takes a good look at the second lunch. She then looks up at him and says, “You know Mark. . . Today I'm feeling really hungry.”

“Oh, is that so?” said Mark as he stares at the second boxed lunch.

Lanna continues, “Yeah, I'm REALLY hungry. Hungry enough, that I can eat. . . Two lunches today.”

“Um. . .” Mark then looks at the second lunch again. He wants to give it to her, but he made it especially for Chelsea. He doesn't have enough money to go out and buy an extra lunch at the diner for either of them. “Well, you see. . . I made this lunch for my friend, so. . .”

Lanna then snatches the second lunch, and says, “Don't worry so much about your friend. I'm sure she can manage to find something to eat on her own. I, on the other hand, need the energy to do my work.”

Mark wants to protest, but Lanna has already stolen Chelsea's lunch, so he feels that there isn't anything he could do about it. Lanna then walks behind Mark, and shoves him towards the direction of the diner and says, “Everything is going to work out fine! Just go to the diner, and get something to eat. I'll see you tomorrow!”

Mark scratches his head and says, “Well, if you say so. I'll see you tomorrow then!”

Mark then walks off towards the diner. There wasn't anything he could do, arguing with Lanna was futile. After he is out if sight, Lanna broods angrily and yells to herself, “I can't believe it! That two timer! He's only allowed to make lunch for me, not Chelsea too! This is no good, Mark is probably going to make three lunches from now on to make sure that he has enough for that girl!”

She then looks at the two lunches in her hands and sighs. “Honestly, what am I going to do with a second lunch anyway? I can't possibly eat both of them myself, I already ate too much yesterday.”

After staring at the lunches for a moment, she the looks over towards the direction of Chelsea's farm. She smirks as she develops a new plan. “Well, looks like it's time for Plan B. If Mark doesn't want to give up on Chelsea, I'll have Chelsea give up on him instead!”

To be continued.

[remnants]

Nice, Nice Nice. Can't wait for the next chapter.

[butterflyflutterby]

Yay update!

[Pickle]

DUN DUN DUUUUUN!

I think I know what will happen. But I shall be patient.

[Juxapose]

Chapter 4

Lanna's Jealousy

Chelsea is in her farm watering the crops that she had planted with Mark earlier. She then looks up at the blazing Summer sun, and wipes the sweat off her face. The crops in her farm are sprouting, but the work is a bit much for her to handle on her own.

She takes a look at the entrance to her farm, and hopes to see Mark come over and give her a hand. But just like the last time she checked, Mark is nowhere in sight. She fully understands that Mark can't help her out every day. He does have a farm of his own to care for.

After she is done watering the crops, she feels a rumbling in her stomach. It's already 3:00 pm, and Mark has not arrived to bring her anything to eat. She cannot afford to go to the diner, and have a decent meal either. So she sighs, and tells herself that she'll have to eat herbs for the day.

Just as Chelsea is about to walk back inside her home, Lanna arrives at the farm. She hides behind the big sign that says “Chelsea's Farm”, and watches her for a moment. Before she arrived at her farm, Lanna has already practiced what she was going to say to her. Her main goal is to get Chelsea to give up on Mark, at least until she is done with her music.

When her timing is perfect, she walks in with the most kindest and gentle smile Lanna can wear. If she is going to be very convincing, she wants to be as friendly as possible. Just as Chelsea reaches the door to her house, she finally realizes that she has company.

Chelsea walks towards Lanna, and greets, “Hello, welcome to my farm. My name is Chelsea, how can I help you?”

Lanna smiles cheerfully and says, “Hello Chelsea. My name is Lanna Songstress. I came to pay you a visit.”

“Lanna Songstress? Why does that sound so familiar?” asked Chelsea to herself. She takes a good look at Lanna, it takes her a minute to notice who she is. The chocolate brown eyes, the long blond hair,and the aqua green dress. After she finally realizes who she is, Chelsea gasps and yells, “Oh my god! You're Lanna Songstress, the famous pop idol!”

“Yes, that's me!” nodded Lanna.

Chelsea's eyes glow with excitement as she yells, “Oh my goodness, I have a famous pop idol in my farm! I'm so like your biggest fan! I love your music so much! Please tell me you'll give me your autograph!”

Lanna looks away and says, “Great! She's a fan of mine. This may be easier that I thought.”

She then faces Chelsea again and says, “I'll get you that autograph later. For now. . .” She pulls out the boxed lunches from behind her back and continues, “A man named Mark asked me to deliver this to you. I was hoping if we could eat together, and have a little chat.”

Chelsea places her hands on her blushing cheeks and says, “Wow, you want to have lunch with me? I'm so honored!” She quickly opens the door, and lets Lanna inside her home.

Lanna enters Chelsea's house, and feels a bit disappointed. Nothing inside even remotely looks anything like a house for a girl. The walls are plain, and there is hardly any type of decorations or furniture. Just a table, a single bed, some chairs, and a door leading to the bathroom.

Chelsea rubs the back of her head bashfully and says, “Sorry about my home. I just moved here a little while ago. I'm having a hard time making some money, so I haven't hadn't made enough to remodel the house.”

“It's fine, I understand.” sighed Lanna. They then sit together on the table, and opens their lunch boxes. Just like always, Mark has cooked fish over rice with yam pudding.

Chelsea takes a bite, and nearly screams with joy. “Wow, this is definitely Mark's lunch. I haven't had it very often, but I can already recognize his handiwork!”

“Yes, Mark is quite talented in the kitchen.” said Lanna before taking a bite herself.

After they have finished eating, Chelsea makes some tea, and gives Lanna a cup. She then begins the flurry of fan questions, “So tell me, why are you on this island? Are you hiding from your fans in the city? Are you on vacation?”

Lanna laughs, then answers, “No, I'm not. Actually to be honest, I'm in the middle of writing lyrics to my second album.”

Chelsea gasps cheerfully and says, “Wow, a new album? It's been years since your first CD, I can't wait until your new one comes out!”

At this point, she feels as if she got her in her trap. She then begins the next phase in her plan. She takes a sip of her tea, then says, “Actually, that's why I am here.”

Chelsea looks at Lanna with a surprised expression and asks, “Really? What's up?”

Lanna then pretends to act bashful and asks, “Well you see. . . How do you feel about Mark?”

“Mark? asked Chelsea. She takes a moment to think, then answers, “Well, I think Mark is a great guy. He helps me out whenever he has a chance, and he is a great cook. I guess I do like him, if he ever decides to ask me out, I would definitely say yes.”

Hearing that has made Lanna feel a bit annoyed, but she tries her best to keep cool. She then puts her tea down and says, “I see, that may be a problem. You see. . . Mark and I already have a relationship of our own.”

“Oh, I see. . .” sighed Chelsea sadly. “I had no idea that you were Mark's girlfriend.”

“I AM NOT MARK'S GIRLFRIEND!!!” snapped Lanna standing up and slamming her hands on the table. Chelsea jumps back at Lanna's quick and sudden reaction. She felt that a viper had just snapped it's jaws just out of her reach.

Lanna quickly sits down, and takes another sip of the tea. Chelsea then feels that it is safe to sit back down. Lanna then says, “Please don't misunderstand me. Mark and I are not in that type of relationship. You see, Mark is a very loyal fan of mine, and because of that, he has devoted himself to making lunches for me in order to help me have sufficient energy to write my lyrics.”

“I see. . .” said Chelsea. “So, what does this have to do with me?”

Lanna folds her hands on the table and says, “Well Chelsea. . . You see, when Mark met you, he's been neglecting his duties in making my daily lunch. Without it, I have a hard time concentrating, and I cannot write very well. So I was wondering if you could keep your distance from him for a while. After I am done, you can have him again. But for now, I need him for the sake of music.”

“You're asking me to tell him not to come by my farm anymore?” asked Chelsea. Lanna nods, and finishes off her tea.

Chelsea takes a while to think about Lanna's request. She would like to help Lanna, but her request does seem to be quite unreasonable. After thinking for a while, Chelsea answers, “Well, I would like to help. . . I guess I would like to see a new album released soon. . .”

“Great! I knew you would understand!” cheered Lanna.

“However. . .” interrupted Chelsea raining on Lanna's parade. “Mark has been such a great guy to me. He helps me, and he makes me lunch. He's been a great friend, I couldn't possibly just tell him to just go away.”

“But. . . It's for the sake of music!” said Lanna.

Chelsea shakes her head no and says, “I'm sorry, but I can't. Even if it's only for a while, I like Mark too much to just tell him to leave me alone.”

Lanna growls angrily and yells, “This is so not fair! I was on this island first, so Mark belongs to me!!” She then quickly covers her moth and says to herself, “Wow, that didn't come out right. That sounded like I actually like him too.”

There was a pause for a good minute. Lanna was shocked about what she just blurted out in an excited moment. Chelsea didn't know what to make of it. Chelsea then takes a deep breath and says, “Um, Lanna. I hope you don't mind me saying, but could it be that you may be a little jealous?”

Lanna then starts to tremble with frustration. Chelsea takes a step back, she can clearly see by how upset Lanna has now become. She is so mad, she is about to explode like a bomb.

“J. . J. . Jealous!! HOW DARE YOU?!?!?! Did you forget who you're talking to?! I am Lanna Songstress, a famous pop idol singer! I have no reason to be jealous of you! I am so famous, I can have any man that I want! Including Mark! Why on earth would I be jealous of a newbie farmer like you?!” Chelsea is speechless. Asking her that question was not one of her better choices in words, but she had no idea that Lanna would get so upset about it.

After a moment, Lanna takes a few deep breaths, and calms down a bit. She then takes her empty box, and says, “I don't need to take this from you! I'm leaving! Goodbye!” She then walks out of Chelsea's house, nearly slamming the door behind her.

Chelsea just stood there still shocked by Lanna's reaction. All she could day is, “Wow, she's so different that I had ever imagined her. I guess the pop idol business must be getting to her. What a shame, I was hoping we could be friends.”

The next day, Lanna wakes up, and gets ready for work. She sits on her chair, and begins to think about any lyrics that she may come up today. But rather than writing anything useful, every other word was “Chelsea” and “Jealous”. After throwing some paper away, Lanna rests her head on her hands and says to herself, “Come on Lanna. You have to get it together! Two years, and you still have nothing! If the manager finds out, he's going to be so mad!”

She then takes a deep breath, and decides to go outside for some fresh air. She walks around in circles, hoping to get some type of idea on what to write about. She had many ideas in the past two years, but they were rejected. The more she thinks about it, the more she gets worried.

As she walks around in circles, she stops to see someone walking around nearby. She hides, and watches Mark walk around town. She notices that Mark is heading towards the jungle area of the island. And the only reason Mark would ever go there, is to go visit Chelsea.

Watching him head towards Chelsea's farm makes her feel a bit upset. After a quick moment, she decides to follow Mark to Chelsea's farm. As she is following him, Lanna says to herself, “That's it, I'm getting tired of this two timing business. If Mark doesn't want to leave Chelsea, and if Chelsea doesn't want to leave Mark, I'll have to separate them myself.”

Lanna continues to Follow Mark through the jungle, hiding behind trees and rocks. Far enough so that she doesn't get noticed, but close enough so that she doesn't lose track him. After leaving the jungle, Lanna finds out that her suspicions are correct. Mark is heading into Chelsea's farm.

Chelsea is inside her farm clearing away any weeds that has grown in the farm. Soon enough, she finds Mark walking towards her. She doesn't notice Lanna hiding just outside her farm.

“Hey there Chelsea. I got done with the farm work early today, so I thought I'd give you a hand.” greeted Mark.

Chelsea smiles and says, “Thank you Mark, I would appreciate it very much. Oh, speaking of appreciation, thanks for the lunch yesterday, it was delicious.”

“Lunch?” Mark asked. “What are you talking about, I didn't-”

“Mark!” interrupted Lanna's voice. Mark and Chelsea both look over to the entrance of the farm to fine Lanna walking over. They both cringe in fear, Lanna does not look happy at all.

Lanna walks up to Mark and says, “Mark, what are you doing here? You know it's rude to stand a girl up!”

Mark scratches his head in confusion, and answers, “But, I didn't stand you up.”

“Don't give me that!” snapped Lanna. “You know darn well that you come over to visit me at two o'clock in the afternoon every day!”

“But it's 10:30 am.” answered Mark. “There's still plenty of time before I visit you.”

“Never mind that!” growled Lanna. She then grabs his arm, and begins to drag him out of Chelsea's farm saying, “Come on! We're going on a date!”

“You mean right now? But it's so sudden, and I planned to-”

“Just be quiet, and lets go!” interrupted Lanna.

Lanna continues to drag Mark out of the farm ignoring any complaints from Mark. As soon as they are out of the farm, and out of Chelsea's vision and hearing range, Lanna pushes Mark against the closest tree and yells, “Okay, fess up! What's going on between you and Chelsea!”

“I don't know what you're talking about.” said Mark. “I was just helping Chelsea out with her farm, that's all.”

“Is that right?” asked Lanna. She then looks over at his rucksack, and folds her arms asking, “What do you have in there today? Lunch for Chelsea?”

“Well. . . Yes. I made lunch early, so I thought I'd take it with me, and eat at lunchtime.” answered Mark.

Lanna throws her arms down, and yells, “Mark, You can't go and make lunches for two different girls, it's not right!”

“Why not?” asked Mark.

“Because. . .” Lanna tries her best to come up with a good excuse. But after several minutes of thinking, she cannot come up with anything. So she just says, “Just because it's not!”

She then turns away and folds her arms again saying, “Mark, I think it's about time you choose who you want to make lunch for. Me or Chelsea, make your choice right now!”

Mark is speechless. He wants to say something, but he doesn't know what to tell her. There is another moment of silence. Lanna stands there waiting for Mark's answer, while Mark tries to make any sense out of what Lanna is telling her. After a while, Mark asks, “Um, Lanna? Could it be that you may be jealous of Chelsea?”

Lanna's eyes open wide out of shock. She turns around, and shows Mark the scariest face he has ever seen in his life. He almost swears that Lanna was going to kill him for a moment.

Lanna then explodes, “JEALOUS!!!! HOW DARE YOU!!!! DID YOU FORGET WHO YOUR TALKING TO!!!!” She then starts poking Mark as hard as she could yelling, “Listen to me Mark! I! DO! NOT! GET! JEALOUS! OVER! ANYONE! DO YOU UNDERSTAND THAT!!!” Mark nods, but remains quiet. Last thing he wants is a slap at this point.

Lanna then turns away once again, and says, “You know what, I change my mind. I don't want to go on a date anymore. Goodbye!”

Lanna then storms away. But before she leaves, Mark calls her. She looks back, and sees that Mark took out a boxed lunch out of his backpack. “Since you're here, I might as well give you your lunch!” called Mark.

Lanna storms back to Mark, and snatches the boxed lunch. “I am still not going on a date with you!” she yelled before storming back home.

Lanna enters her home, and slams the door behind her. She then opens the lunch, and begins to shovel the food into her mouth angrily. “Stupid Mark!” she complained before filling her mouth a second time with food. “How dare he talk that way to me!” She then continues to stuff her face once again. After chewing and swallowing, she continues to complain, “And to think that I actually thought of him as my fan! Well, let me say this! I don't need him, he can just go ahead, and marry Chelsea for all I care!”

She then dips her spoon into the lunch, and then realizes that there is no more food left. She looks in, and feels a bit bad. She ate the lunch so fast, she never even have a change to enjoy it at all. After cleaning some rice off her face, she sat down on her desk and tries to get back to work.

She tries her best to write something, anything. But as she sits there for hours, she doesn't think about anything but Mark. Later at night, she begins to feel bad that she yelled at Mark earlier. All she wanted was for Mark to continue to make lunch for her. But seeing him make lunch or Chelsea as well just plain bothered her.

She sits back on her chair, and places the pencil in her mouth. She looks out into the dark Summer evening, and wonders for a while. Has she offended Mark? Will he want to continue to make her lunch every day?

Lanna sighs and begins to talk to herself, “I just don't get it. Why did I get so upset for? All he is doing is making lunch, there shouldn't be any reason I should get so mad. But you know, it has been two whole years since Mark and I met for the first time. At that point, I didn't pay much attention to him, because lots of people give me gifts. But after a while, the gifts stop coming in, and Mark was the only one who still brought me something every day. I guess I kinda got so used to it, I just don't want it to stop.
But you know, not once have I done something for Mark. Maybe I should do something for him, to thank him for all the lunches he has brought me every day. He doesn't have to, it's not like he owes me a lunch every day. I guess I should do something for him. But what should I do for him?”

Lanna looks over at the Calendar, and notices that it's the 23 day of Summer. Just two days before the Fireworks Festival. “Hmm. . . The Fireworks Festival? I've been so busy with my work, I have been skipping just about every festival. Just when was the last time I attended any festivals anyway? I guess even before I came to this island, I was busy being a pop idol to do fun stuff like that.”

Lanna hen stands up and says, “Fine, it's decided! I'll ask Mark if he would like to escort me to the Fireworks Festival. It's the least I could do for him as a 'Thank You' for all the good food he has given me.”

To be continued.

[rachel]

Lanna sure has a strange way of liking someone. xD

[stitch]

Oh my, this is awesome, no amazing, no I don't really know the correct word for this. I really like it. At first I was so angry at Lanna for making Mark her lunch slave and then I was laughing at her. Then I pitied Mark and now I have to admit I'm beginning to pity Lanna. FANTASTIC story! Love your conflict, it's kind of serious, but funny as well. I confess, the unusual choice of tense threw me off at first, but once I got used to it, it's been great. Though I have to admit, in the game I really thought Lanna was quite friendly and I know you meant this to be different than the game but I don't know if I can look at her the same way again. I'm not sure what would cross my mind first, the angry I make people my lunch slaves, or there's no way I'm jealous fit. Either way I think I'd laugh myself silly if I played the game any time soon.

Brilliant story, I can not wait to read more. Excellent work.

[Juxapose]

The next chappy is gonna be good. I hope you look forward to it.

[Juxapose]

Chapter 5

Lanna's Date

The next morning at around 10:00 am, Lanna decides to pay Mark's farm another visit. She plans to first apologize to Mark for how she acted the day before. Then afterwards, ask Mark to accompany her to the Fireworks Festival. As she approaches the farm, she begins to get butterflies in her stomach. It's not often that she goes to his farm, but she feels awkward about going to his farm today. Almost like when she goes on stage in a concert, and she feels nervous about singing before an audience.

As she walks to the farm, she wonders why the sudden change. Last time she went to his farm to ask him out, she was full of confidence. Now she's nervous about what Mark will tell her. She wonders if maybe it's because of what she said yesterday that makes her feel this way this time around. But just like in a concert, she roots for herself, tell herself that she can do it, and goes ahead with the show.

She finds Mark watering the tomato crops hoping for another harvest before the end of the season. The weather has been fair all season long with little rainfall, and enough sunlight for a healthy harvest. As she watches him from just outside the farm, she hesitates to go inside. But after taking a deep breath, she marches inside without showing any of the nervous feelings that she has.

“Hello Mark.” she greets as she gets close to him.

Mark turns his attention to Lanna, and smiles for her. “Hello Lanna, I'm glad you came by.”

From only a few feet away, Lanna looks down to her toes. She has recited the lines she wanted to say over and over before she arrived. But for some odd reason, she has a hard time letting them out. She takes another deep breath before saying “Listen Mark, I have something to say. . .”

“I have something to say too.” replied Mark. Before allowing her to say anything to her, Mark bows before Lanna, and says, “I'm sorry Lanna.”

Lanna jumps back an inch. The last thing she would expect Mark to do is apologize to her. “W-what are you apologizing for? You didn't do anything wrong.” she said nervously.

“It's because I said something yesterday that made you upset at me. I didn't mean to make you mad, I just. . . I'm sorry.”

Mark continues to bow and apologize to Lanna. She is speechless, she had planned to apologize to him. Apologizing to him at this point would make her feel awkward. She crosses her arms, and looks at Mark with a loss for words. She sighs deeply and says, “Okay, fine. I forgive you. Just quit apologizing already, you're embarrassing yourself.”

Mark stands back up, and says, “Really? You'll forgive me? So. . . We can still be friends?”

“Of course we can still be friends.” nodded Lanna.

Mark smiles cheerfully. His golden smile under the warm morning sun's rays makes her heart skip a beat. She tries her best to hide how she feels, she wants to run away, and hide in her home for a while. But she is determined to at least thank him for the lunches he goes out of his way and makes for her.

“So, I guess I'll see you later at the usual time?” asked Mark.

“Actually, I want to ask you something.” said Lanna. Mark stands by waiting patiently for Lanna's question. But since Mark ruined her plan for an apology, she needs to come up with a new plan to ask Mark to the Fireworks Festival. Luckily as a pop idol, she has been in situation where things didn't go as planned, so she can at least wing it.

“Mark, I'm thinking about going to the Fireworks Festival tomorrow. But I don't feel comfortable going by myself. . . So I was wondering if you could take me to the festival tomorrow.”

Mark is very surprised. In the two years that Mark has lived in the island, not once did he notice her in any festivals. She always said that she was too busy to attend any festivals, so he never bothered to ask her. But Lanna has come to his farm asking him to accompany her to the Fireworks Festival held the next day.

“Lanna. . . Are you asking me out on a date?” asked Mark curiously.

Lanna recrossed her arms and looks away saying, “No, I am not asking you out on a date. This is just me saying 'thanks' for all the delicious food you bring me.”

“I see. . .” said Mark disappointed by her answer.

She then turns around, and pouts while saying, “I thought it would make you happy to have the honor of escorting your favorite idol to the festival. But if you don't want to take me, that's fine. I can just ask someone else.”

Mark takes a step towards her. Hearing him get closer makes her heart race. As she turns to look at him, now inches away, she can't help but blush seeing him so close. With a gentle smile on his face, he responds, “Lanna, I'd be happy to be your escort to the Fireworks Festival.”

Seeing Mark's face again so close turns her face completely red. She looks away again to hide her face behind her long golden hair. She couldn't believe how Mark's answer is making her feel. Her heart is beating so quickly, she feels that it could burst. She then holds her chest hoping that Mark does not notice and says, “Okay. . . I'll wait for you at my house tomorrow. . . Pick me up at six. . . Don't be late. . .”

Without waiting for his reply, Lanna walks out of the farm quickly, almost as fast as a light jog. She doesn't want Mark to see her this way. As soon as she gets out of sight, she stops and holds her chest trying to calm her frantic heart beat. As she tries her best to calm herself, she whispers to herself, “Why do I feel this way today? All I'm doing is asking Mark to accompany me to the festival. I didn't feel this way when I asked him to treat me to lunch. . . Could it be that I'm in. . . No, it can't be. . . I don't want to go through this again. . .”

After a few minutes of breathing deeply, she finally is able to calm down. She then lightly slaps her cheeks and reminds herself, “That's right. I am a pop idol, and Mark is a fan of mine. We are only friends, two completely different people from two different worlds. I don't have any time for any romances right now, I'm just going with him as a close friend, that's all.”

With that decided, Lanna goes back home, and tries to get some work done. But as she sits on her desk, concentrating on writing lyrics become increasingly difficult. All she can write about is Mark. Every single time the word “mark” appears on paper, even if it's not referring to her friend Mark, She tears up the page, and starts over. After several Hours, she grows tired, and takes the day off to rest herself.

The next day, Lanna spends the entire day trying to figure out what to wear to the festival. She is in her bedroom with a pile of clothing on her bed. As she stares at the clothing, she sighs deeply. Not once while she has been living on the island, she had done so much preparation for going out.

She picks up a red frilly dress, and goes over to the mirror to check it out. After staring at it for a few minutes, she says “Would this be good for going to a festival? . . . No, I think this dress is too flashy.”

She then picks up a light blue shirt, and jeans, and wears them. She then takes another look at the mirror, but sighs and says, No, no, no. This doesn't look like me at all.”

She then tries the white blouse, and a long red skirt. As she looks in the mirror, she smiles at how attractive she looks. But trying to imagine how she would look with Mark next to her, she shakes her head no, and tries on a different dress. Hour after hour, Lanna tries on all types of dress, from fancy to casual, elegant to conservative, flashy to plain. Seeing that time is running out, she sighs, and opens up her closet filled with copies of her aqua green dress with the black frills.

She then takes out a clean pressed aqua green dress and says, “Looks like I'm wearing this today. But just to be different, I'll leave the barret home.” After deciding what dress to wear, she goes off to take a shower. She then combs her hair, and wears some make up. A light tan blush to give her skin some color, and some glossy lipstick for a cute charm.

After getting ready, she looks at the clock, and sees that it's almost time for Mark to pick her up. But as she looks in the mirror, she begins to wonder why is she doing so much preparation for the festival. She keeps telling herself that she's not going on a date, but the more time that passes, the more that she feels like she's preparing for one.

About a few minutes past six, Mark knocks on the door. Lanna only takes a moment to open the door. Like Lanna, Mark does not wear anything special, although he was tempted to. Just a clean set of his usual clothes. But as he gazes at Lanna that evening, his heart couldn't help but skip a beat. She is wearing the same dress as she usually does, but without the barret. But he can notice something different about her. Glowing skin, glossy lips, flower scented perfume. To him, it feels more like a date than just escorting her.

“Are you ready to go?” asked Lanna, kicking Mark out of his trance.

“Um. . . Yes. I'm ready.” said Mark. They then walk out of the village together, and head over to the beach were the festival is held.

In the beach, many of the villagers have set up stands to keep everyone entertained until the firework are lit several hours later. As Mark and Lanna walk together at the festival, Lanna keeps looking around, but pays little attention to the stalls. Mark notices her act strangely, she almost looks like if she's looking for something.

“Is anything wrong Lanna? You look tense.” asked Mark.

Lanna looks at Mark and says, “Nothing really. I just can't help the feeling that someone is going to jump out at me, and take my picture or something. Every time I go to festivals, people typically don't leave me alone, and keep asking for my autograph.”

“It's not going to happen, because just about everyone is used to you living on the island. There's no point in asking for one now, they can ask you anytime.” Mark whispered to himself.

Lanna then thinks for a moment and says, “I also can't shake the feeling that I am being watched. It may be that I am not used to being left alone during a festival, but still. . .”

Lanna continues to look around for reporters and fans. But as she looks around, a candy stall catches her eye. In the stall, some cotton candy on a stick is shown on display. At this moment, Lanna's love for sweets takes over. She clasps her hands together, and her eyes glow with delight as she stares at the sweet treat in the candy stand.

She can't help herself but to separate herself from Mark, and run to the candy stand. Mark scratches his head, and cheerfully laughs at her. This is the first time that he has seen Lanna act more like a little girl, rather than a busy pop idol. He finds it rather cute and charming.

Lanna approaches the stand, and reaches out for the cotton candy. But before she touches it, she pulls her hand away. She tilts her head down in shame, knowing full well that she has an image to maintain. But the pink ball of cotton on a stick looks so good, she has a hard time not looking at it. Using as much will power, she turns away so that she doesn't look at it.

Mark on the other hand, takes the cotton candy, and pays for it. He then shows it to her and says, “Here, have some cotton candy.”

Lanna looks away and says, “I don't want it.”

“Why not? It looks really good!”

Lanna takes another look it the cotton candy. The more Mark offers it to her, the harder it is to resist. But she looks away again and says, “Because I am on a diet. All of my fans would be upset if I gained weight before I finish my work.”

“Oh come on, it's a festival today. It's okay to treat yourself on a day like this. Go on, have some!” Mark continued to offer.

Lanna takes another look at the cotton candy. She knows that she really wants it, she has loved cotton candy ever since she was a child. If she was alone, she could avoid it. But having Mark talking her into having some cotton candy just makes it far too difficult.

Lanna slowly reaches out for the sick of fluffy cotton candy, and accepts it. Before she starts to enjoy it, she says, “Fine, since you went to the trouble of buying it, I'll accept it this time. But if I gain weight, I'll hold you responsible.” She then takes the first bite of the fluffy sweet. Once again, her eyes glow like crystals under the moonlight, and loses control of herself. Mark just can't help but smile at how happy Lanna looks as she is enjoying the cotton candy.

As the festival continues, Lanna continues to visit different stalls to try out other sweets she had missed for years. Some of her favorites are shaved ice, funnel cakes, ice cream, moon cakes, and various other sweets. Lanna has also visited other stalls to play some mini games. Mark also plays some games to win Lanna a cute prize. After playing several games, he is able to win Lanna a cute stuffed animal.

Later that night, mark and Lanna are sitting on top of a large boulder that is in the sands of the beach. At this time, Lanna is finishing a candy apple that they had just bought. While they were enjoying the festival, Lanna had completely forgot about any worries of reporters, fans, or possible strangers watching her from a distance.

“Did you have fun?” asked Mark just after Lanna finishes her candy apple.

She then wipes her face with a moist towelette, and says, “Yes, I admit I had fun. As a pop idol, it can get hard to enjoy a festival when you have fans chasing you everywhere. This is the first time in years that I was able to enjoy a festival in peace.”

“Well, everyone is just used to seeing you around. There is no point in bothering you now if they can do it anytime.” said Mark.

“What's that supposed to mean?! Are you saying that I am not special anymore?!” snapped Lanna.

Mark sweats nervously , and says, “That's not what I meant. I'm just saying that you have become a part of this island. Everyone here knows you, and. . .” Mark then sighs and continues, “I guess I'm not making any sense, right?”

Lanna then looks up at the sparkling stars, and says, “I think I know what you mean. When I first arrived in the island, so many people started to crowd around me just begging for an autograph. After two years, it doesn't happen anymore, but I still have so many fans on this island. But after I'm done with my second alum, things will get crazy once again. I should relax, and enjoy the peace while it lasts.”

Mark then nods. Seeing that Lanna has been enjoying the festival rather than worrying about fans makes him feel happy. He then takes a moment to think back a moment. For a while, he has wished to go on a single date with Lanna. His reasons are not because she's a famous pop idol, he has a more special reason why. For a long time, even before he has met her in person, he has always felt thankful to her. Now that they are alone at the beach, he feels that it may be a good time to tell her.

“Look! The fireworks are starting!” yelled Lanna. Mark then looks up, and watches the many different fireworks shoot up into the air. Blue, green, red, white, all different beautiful colors in many different patterns light the dark sky. They both are completely breath taken by the beauty of the fireworks.

The fireworks lasts for a full half hour. Afterwards, the festival ends, and Mark has to bring Lanna home. On the way home, they both discuss how wonderful the fireworks look over the beach. Lanna almost feels ashamed that she missed out on the earlier fireworks show on the island. But she will do her best not to miss anymore.

Their conversation cuts short as soon as Lanna arrives home. She turns around, waves goodbye saying, “I had a wonderful time tonight Mark.”

“I'm glad you did. . . Well, I guess I'll see you tomorrow.” replied Mark.

At that point, they part ways. Mark goes home back at the farm. But as he leaves, he realizes that he completely forgot about telling her what he wanted to say. But he feels that there will be another chance to tell her, so he goes home.

Meanwhile, Lanna stands in front of her door watching Mark vanish into the night. As soon as he is out of sight, she places a hand on her chin, and says, “You know, Mark is a really nice guy. He's kind, and sweet. If only I wasn't a pop idol, I wonder if we could. . .”

Without finishing her thought, she opens her door and goes home to rest for the evening. But as soon as she enters her home, she gasps learning that she is not alone. She finds three middle aged men sitting inside her home. A man in his late thirties in a business suit smoking a cigar, and two bodyguards.

“Hello Lanna, it's been a while hasn't it?” said the man in the business suit.

“Good evening. . . Manager.” Lanna said nervously as she bows respectfully.

The manager points at an empty seat nearby and says, “Sit down, we need to talk.” Lanna then nervously takes a seat across from where her manager is sitting. For a minute, things remain silent. She wants to offer him some tea or something, but she is too nervous about what he is going to say.

“That was a pretty nice boy you were with tonight.” said the manager.

“You were following me?” asked Lanna.

The manager takes a puff of his cigar, and says, “I came here earlier, but the house was empty. I asked a local where would I find you, so he directed me to the beach. I didn't want to interrupt your little date, so I waited for you here.”

Lanna trembles. She knows that there is only one reason why her manager would want to visit her in the island. The manager then puts out his cigar, and says, “Well, since you have the time to go out, lets get to the point. You know why I am here, do you?”

Lanna nods and responds nervously, “Yes sir. . . You want the lyrics to my next album. . .”

He then opens his hands in front of her and says, “Well, lets have them. It's been 2 years already, that's more than enough time to finish.”

Lanna's heart begins to beat rapidly, this time she is terrified beyond reason. She has been working hard for 2 years, but she has not completed a single song yet. Breaking the news to him will be tough for her, but giving him no answer will only upset him. So she swallows her fear, and says, “I'm sorry manager. . . But I'm not done yet. . . I still need some more time. . .”

Her manager frowns, which makes her feel even more worried than before. He then stands up, and walks to the nearest window looking out into the dark night sky. He finally takes a deep breath, and says, “Lanna, I'm trying to be fair with you. I let you live on this island because I sympathize with you about what happened. But I thought you had gotten over it already, and is ready to work.”

“I'm sorry. . . I'll try harder, I promise.” said Lanna.

Her manager then looks at her, and says in a stern serious tone, “Do you have any idea what's going on outside this island? The next pop idol is rising, and people are starting to forget about you. The record companies are laughing at me, because I am too soft on my employees. You know how much I hate being laughed at, right?”

Lana nods, but says nothing. She feels that if she dares say anything, she'll only make him more upset than he already is. Her manager then looks out the window once again, and says in a more milder tone, “I'm afraid I have no other choice but to give you a deadline. I'm going to leave you here, and be back in one week. Have the lyrics done by then, or you can consider this island your permanent residence.”

“What? One week?” asked Lanna in a worried tone. “But that won't be enough time. Please manager, can't you give me at least another month?”

Lanna quickly silences herself as soon as the manager pulls a very familiar piece of paper from his jacket pocket. “I'm sure you know what this is, don't you?” he asked.

“Yes. . . It's my contract.” answered Lanna.

The manager then tears the top of the contract slightly, causing Lanna to scream with panic. “Oops, my hand must have slipped.” said the manager in a sarcastic tone. He then continues to tear the contract little by little causing Lanna to panic just a bit more with every tiny rip. “You know what will make my hand stop slipping, am I right?”

“Okay! I'll have the work done in a week!” yelled Lanna. Upon hearing that, her manager stops tearing the contract, and returns it to his jacket pocket. With that decided, he leaves with his men saying, “Remember, one week. I know you won't let me down. I have faith in you.”

The door closes, and Lanna falls on her knees. She then looks at her desk with nothing but rejected ideas and crumpled paper. She has no idea how is she going to complete her lyrics in one week. After two years, she has nothing done. But rather than doing nothing, she quickly goes to her desk, and starts working. She can only hope for the best after a week.

To be continued.

[bchunter]

Awsome chapter!I think it's funny how Lanna ate like 50 candy/sweet things .But that manager scares me . . .

[Pickle]

They all are scary.

[Juxapose]

This is the next fic I should work on aggressively. I'm not that far from the end, about 3 more chapters to go.