Stardale Valley: The Dream Farm

The sound of a ringing phone. 

Leo lazily reached out for the phone resting on the table beside him. He glanced at the screen, which displayed the time and the caller's name. 

With a light sigh, Leo muttered, "Ah, right... it's Saturday, the start of the weekend. What should I do today?" 

Setting the phone aside, he slowly got up from the couch and made his way to the bathroom. Standing under the warm shower, he let the water cascade over his tired body, closing his eyes for a moment, savoring the tranquility that came with the sound of flowing water. 

Once he finished his shower, Leo dressed carefully, as if trying to organize his scattered thoughts. When he entered the kitchen, he prepared a cup of coffee, the aroma of freshly ground beans filling the air with familiar comfort. Taking a sip, he settled into the living room, opening his laptop. 

Beside him on the table, a stack of scattered papers lay in disarray—some containing sketches, others filled with random notes. The most prominent item was a file he had pulled from his bag, the one Lilia had given him on behalf of his colleague Jonathan. Inside was an important project: a new beverage concept proposed by the parent company, along with clear instructions for its development. The guidelines carried an unmistakable sense of urgency—this was more than a mere suggestion; it was an order to create something innovative and exceptional, with high expectations attached. 

The project was to be presented at a major meeting, attended by Max Baker, the company's CEO, along with the general manager and other branch heads. 

Leo flipped through the file, scanning the details. 

He murmured to himself as he turned the pages, "Alright, let's see what I'm up against..." 

But as his eyes landed on a specific section, they widened in shock. He reread the lines, as if doubting what he had just seen. 

"What?! The presentation is at the start of the week?" Leo exclaimed, his voice laced with disbelief. "That... that means I only have two days to prepare!" 

Snapping the file shut, he ran a hand through his hair, trying to process the situation. 

"They can't be serious... Why didn't anyone tell me this sooner? I was under the impression that the deadline was much further away!" 

Taking a deep breath, he attempted to calm himself, but the rising tension was undeniable. 

"Great... so much for a relaxing weekend. Looks like it's going to be a race against time now." 

He grabbed his phone and quickly scrolled through his call log, searching for Jonathan's number. Pressing the dial button, he tapped his fingers anxiously on the table while waiting for the call to connect. 

Jonathan picked up, his voice tired. "Leo... I was expecting your call." 

Leo, his tone tense, wasted no time. "Jonathan, is this true? The presentation is at the start of the week? Why didn't you tell me sooner?" 

Jonathan let out a sigh. "I know, and I'm sorry about that. Work has been overwhelming, and it slipped through the cracks. Believe me, it wasn't intentional." 

Leo groaned in frustration. "But I needed more time to prepare! This is a major project—I can't afford to mess this up." 

Jonathan, his voice calm, responded, "I understand your concern, but look at it from another angle. I gave you this opportunity because I believe in you. You're ambitious and creative, and that's why you were chosen for this. If you succeed, this could be a big step toward your promotion." 

Leo fell silent for a moment, contemplating Jonathan's words. Taking a deep breath, he finally spoke, his voice steadier. "Alright... I'll do my best to pull this off." 

Jonathan smiled slightly. "That's what I wanted to hear. You have great potential—don't let this challenge get the better of you." 

Ending the call, Leo set his phone down, a mix of anxiety and determination settling in. It was time to focus and get to work. 

He muttered to himself with a sigh, "Alright, time to start organizing the new Joga Sprite project." 

He paused, taking a sip of his coffee. 

"I need to think about the perfect flavors and ingredients... something refreshing... something unique." 

Opening his laptop, he began browsing the internet, his eyes scanning rapidly through articles and recipes about popular sodas. Certain ideas stood out more than others. 

A small, confident smile played on his lips. "What if I use natural lemon extract? It would add the perfect refreshing touch. Maybe a mix of tropical fruits for a unique twist. Yes... that could work." 

Grabbing a pen, he jotted down a few ideas on paper, his excitement growing. But before he could get too deep into brainstorming, the sound of his phone ringing interrupted him again. 

He picked it up and saw Liliah's name flashing on the screen. 

Leo smiled as he answered, "Hey, Lilia!" 

Liliah's voice was bright and playful. "Hey, Leo! How's it going? What are you up to today?" 

Leo chuckled. "Oh, not much. Just woke up not long ago, but I was going through the file you gave me yesterday. Seems like I've got something big on my plate." 

Lilia, curiosity evident in her tone, asked, "Really? And what's this big thing?" 

Leo took a deep breath before replying, "Looks like Jonathan handed me an opportunity to climb up the ladder. The project is straight from the parent company. The goal is to develop a brand-new beverage." 

Lilia, surprised but happy for him, exclaimed, "Congratulations, Leo! Looks like you might finally be getting that promotion—and you'll outrank me soon!" 

Leo smirked, his voice calm. "Thanks, but I don't think it's time to celebrate just yet. The project is still ahead of me, and I need to focus." 

His eyes drifted over the scattered papers before him, deep in thought about the project and the challenges ahead. 

He added, "But what about you? How's your day going? Anything keeping you busy today?"

Lilia, laughing lightly in a relaxed manner, replied, "As always, nothing new. I don't think I'm busy today, but I thought I'd call and see if you'd like to join me for lunch?"

Leo paused for a moment, a faint smile on his lips as he glanced at the project papers in front of him. He hesitated briefly but soon felt the urge to take a break. Lifting his gaze, he said, "Why not? I think I can take a small break. Where shall we meet?"

With excitement in her voice, Lilia responded, "Great! I'll send you the location in a bit. See you there!"

After ending the call, Leo looked back at his papers. He felt his project was on the right track, but he also realized that stepping out might give him a fresh wave of inspiration.

Smiling to himself, he muttered, "Maybe lunch will be a good chance to clear my mind… Who knows?"

He got up from his seat, carefully gathering the papers before preparing to leave.

A notification sound interrupted his thoughts.

Glancing at his phone, he saw a new message from Lilia containing the restaurant's location. He opened it and took a moment to pinpoint it on the map.

Leo, smiling to himself: "Alright, that's close enough. Let's take a break today."

He stood up and went to his wardrobe, picking out a simple white shirt and comfortable gray trousers. To complete the look, he added a navy blue casual jacket. Standing before the mirror, he adjusted his collar and made sure he looked presentable.

His reflection revealed a young man of average height and a slender build. Yet, his striking red hair and bright blue eyes were more than enough to catch attention.

With a quiet smile, he murmured, "Not bad… at least I look decent for a casual meetup."

Stepping out of his apartment, he headed toward the nearest bus stop. After a short wait, the bus arrived, and he boarded, choosing a seat by the window. Relaxing into his seat, he pulled out his phone and resumed searching for drink recipes.

He scrolled through different fruit and herb combinations, looking for fresh ideas to enhance his project. His scrolling paused when a recipe featuring fresh mint and strawberry slices caught his eye.

Leo, making a note with a grin: "This sounds refreshing… Maybe I can refine this idea even further."

He soon arrived at his destination.

Stepping off the bus, he glanced at the restaurant's exterior. It was a small but cozy place with wooden décor and large glass windows overlooking the street.

Walking inside with confident steps, he quickly spotted Lilia sitting at a table by the window, waving at him with a bright smile.

Lilia, playfully: "Finally! I thought you were running late."

Leo, smiling: "I couldn't resist a lunch invitation from you. How have you been?"

Lilia, in a warm tone: "Busy as usual. And you? How's your project going?"

Leo took a seat across from her, exchanging a friendly glance before the waiter approached to take their orders.

Waiter: "What can I get for you?"

Lilia: "I'll have a fresh orange juice, please."

Leo: "Black coffee, thank you."

After the waiter left, Lilia leaned forward with curiosity.

Lilia: "So, tell me about this project you've been working on."

Leo, his tone turning serious, replied, "Yeah, my senior colleague, Jonathan, asked me to design a new beverage for Goga Mart. The goal is to present it in front of Max Baker, the company's CEO, along with other branch owners in a major presentation. If I can pitch it the right way, I might have a shot at a promotion."

Lilia's eyes widened, excitement lighting up her voice. "Oh my god! That's amazing! Being in front of Max Baker and the other executives… That's huge! If you manage to impress them, I can't even imagine the opportunities that could come your way. Do you already have a solid idea of what you want to present?"

Leo ran a hand through his hair, thinking deeply before letting out a soft sigh. "I have some initial ideas, yeah. I'm considering a blend of fresh fruits with a touch of herbs. Something refreshing and unique, but… I still need to refine it."

As Leo spoke, Lilia took a sip of her juice, pondering for a moment. She saw this as an opportunity—not just to get closer to him, but to prove her ability to contribute and be part of something significant. A playful smile crept onto her lips as her eyes gleamed with a clever spark.

Gathering her confidence, she said, "What if I helped you with this? We could brainstorm together. Maybe I can add my own touch—you might find it suits the project."

Leo's smile softened, feeling a sense of ease at her suggestion. "Of course. Let's hear your ideas—you always have a creative perspective."

Inside her, Lilia's heart was pounding faster, and she smiled with hope.

Now, I can get closer to you, Leo. This is my chance.

The two of them eagerly exchanged ideas:

Lilia: "What do you think about using fresh mint? It gives a refreshing touch, especially if we add lemon and strawberry slices."

Leo, thoughtfully: "I like that idea. We could serve it with ice to enhance the flavor even more."

Lilia, excitedly: "Exactly! Maybe we could add a touch of natural honey instead of sugar for a healthier taste."

Leo, with a confident smile: "Great idea. I think we've got a solid combination to work with now."

As they talked, Leo felt a sense of relief. Having Lilia's support made him even more excited about the project.

After discussing the initial ideas, Lilia sighed with enthusiasm, leaning back in her chair.

Lilia, her voice filled with energy: "So, we have the basic concept. But sitting here won't help us make it happen. How about we go buy the ingredients and start the project?"

Leo raised his eyebrows slightly in surprise, then smiled lightly, as if her proposal had unexpectedly motivated him.

Leo, teasingly: "I didn't expect you to be this excited. Don't you have any other plans today?"

Lilia, with a playful challenge: "My plan today is to help you with this project, Leo. Isn't that enough?"

Leo chuckled softly and stood up, ready to leave.

Leo: "Alright, I can't turn down an offer like that. But since we'll be working in my kitchen, I suppose I should officially invite you to my apartment."

Lilia nodded with a gentle smile and picked up her bag.

Lilia: "Leo's apartment? Sounds interesting. Alright then, let's go see your hosting skills in action."

They walked out of the café together and headed toward the nearest branch of Joja Market. As they approached, Leo glanced up at the large company sign and let out a long, exaggerated sigh.

Leo, murmuring to himself: "Goja... This name haunts me in my sleep."

Lilia looked at him in surprise before bursting into laughter.

Lilia: "Nightmares? You work for the company, Leo. Don't tell me you hate the name that much!"

Leo, smiling with a mix of amusement and seriousness: "Trust me, when you repeat the name dozens of times a day, hear it in every meeting and every ad, it turns into a ghost that follows you even in your dreams."

Lilia kept laughing while Leo tried to maintain a serious expression, but the hint of a smile was clear on his face.

Lilia, wiping away tears of laughter: "If that's what your nightmares look like, I wonder what your happy dreams are about?"

Leo, with a sly grin: "My happy dreams? Probably a life without the word Joja in it."

They reached the entrance of the supermarket, decorated with the company's logo and elegant displays. As they stepped inside, they were greeted by the cool air and the scent of freshly baked bread.

Lilia, full of energy: "Alright, let's begin. What's the first thing we need?"

Leo pulled out his phone and opened his notes app, pointing at the first item on the list.

Leo: "Lemon, strawberries, fresh mint. Let's head to the produce section first."

They walked over to the fruit aisle and carefully picked their ingredients. Lilia held up a lemon to the light, inspecting its quality.

Lilia: "What do you think of this one? Looks fresh."

Leo, examining it closely: "Perfect. Grab a few more."

When they reached the strawberries, Lilia carefully selected the best ones while Leo watched in silence. Suddenly, he lifted his gaze to her with a mischievous smile.

Leo: "Are you this skilled with all fruits, or just strawberries?"

Lilia smirked as she glanced at him.

Lilia: "Don't underestimate me, Leo. I'm a professional shopper. You'd better learn from me."

They laughed together and continued shopping, filling their cart with the necessary ingredients, including natural honey and fresh herbs. Once they were done, they headed toward the frozen section to pick out the right amount of ice.

Lilia, holding a bag of ice: "Alright, this should be enough. Now, let's go to your place and see how you handle these ingredients."

Leo, pushing the cart toward the checkout: "Just remember, I'm only a beginner in the world of drinks. Don't expect a miracle on the first try."

Lilia, with an encouraging smile: "Every great recipe starts with a single step, right? And who knows, maybe this one will be your key to a promotion."

They exchanged smiles as they stepped out of the supermarket, bags in hand, ready to begin their experiment.