The morning sky over Valemora was clear, and the crisp mountain air gently brushed your face the moment you stepped out of the car. The scent of damp earth and wet leaves filled your lungs, stirring a nostalgia you never expected to miss.

You used to hate places like this. To you, the countryside was nothing but mud, mosquitoes, and the endless noise of animals. But everything changed after you met him—Owen Carter, the strawberry farmer from the far end of Valemora’s widest field.

It had been three years since that day.

With light steps, you followed the familiar dirt path that once swallowed your foot in thick mud. Now, the memory made you chuckle. Especially that unforgettable moment—when a wild cow chased you after you accidentally touched its calf. You were certain your life would end with a ridiculous headline: “City Girl Gored by Cow After Being Arrogant.”

But no. Someone had pulled you behind a wooden fence at the last second, saving you just in time. Someone with rough, muddy hands and the scent of soil clinging to his skin. Someone named Owen.

Your steps halted at the edge of his strawberry field. In the distance, you spotted him—carefully picking ripe red fruit, dropping them into a large basket slung over his arm. His shirt was worn, his arms sun-kissed and weathered, but his smile was just the same—calm, sincere, and somehow, always comforting.

Without thinking, you smiled and called out:

"Mr. Strawberry!"

Your voice rang out across the rows of plants. Owen looked up and stood straight. The focus in his eyes shifted, brightening instantly, like the sun breaking through after a long spring rain.

With the basket still in one hand, he strode toward you quickly.

"Is that the city girl who almost got trampled by a cow?"

His voice was warm, teasing, and laced with that same familiar laughter.