Harvest Moon

My Friends of Mineral Town

Part IV

Chapter VII: A New World Begins

Journal Entry: Tuesday, May 30th

It wasn't an easy dinner last night after Popuri and I announced we were going home early. Grandma was worried that she or Grandpa had done something wrong. It took some reassuring from myself to convince her our decision had nothing to do with her. Hoshi was upset I was leaving. She ended up leaving the table before the meal was over. She said I'd just come home and now I was abandoning her again. I wish she'd understand I have a farm that needs my attention. I know she understands, deep down at least.

Everyone else respected our decision to head home, Mom most of all.

Even though I didn't come out and say it, Mom easily figured out that a big part of me wanting to leave had to do with my dealings with my father's family. Boy, did she hit the nail on the head with that one. I've come to realize that, for the time being, I need to keep my distance from Gram. I can't push any issues with her. She just gets to hostile at me. I may never truly know her reasons for hating me, even after her blaming me for Dad's death. All I can do for now is give her space and, if she wants to, we can try to repair things another time. I'll be ready when that day comes.

Jack closed his journal and put it in his duffel bag. He'd made sure he'd packed everything up before he went to bed. He began checking around the room to see if he forgot anything. The last thing he wanted was to be almost home, only to find out you forgot something important.

Satisfied, he put his bag by the door. He then helped Popuri pick up, making sure the room was clean. After all, they don't want to leave a mess for someone else to clean up.

After cleaning up, Jack grabbed their bags and followed Popuri over to the main house. He had to make a call to get a taxi, it was a long train ride to the port. Needless to say, they were both suprised to see Emily and Megan waiting for them with the rest of the family.

"Hey Emily," Jack said as he put the bags down. He sounded confused. "Why are you two here?"

"Good morning to you too," Emily laughed.

"We can't come see you before you go?" Megan asked as she walked over to him. "I'll be damned if I let you up and leave without seeing you off. Not this time."

"Okay okay," Jack held up his hands. "I get it. I just wasn't expecting you. That's all."

"I'm glad you're both here," Popuri said with a smile. "I was hoping to get to say goodbye to both of you."

"I wanted to say goodbye to you too," Megan replied.

"We were hoping we could give you two a ride," Emily spoke up. "It's got to be better than a cab."

"Cheaper too," Megan chimed in.

"Sound's great," Popuri said excitedly. She looked at Jack. "What do you think Honey?"

Jack didn't answer. He just scratched his chin with a finger and looked like he was deep in thought. Megan put her hands on her hips and glared at him.

"Knock it off Jack," she shot.

"Right," Jack laughed.

Popuri sighed and shook her head. Even after all they've been through together, she still didn't get his sense of humor. Emily just rolled her eyes.

"Sorry," he continued. He looked at Emily and nodded. "I think a ride would be great. Thank you."

Everyone walked together from the house to the gate where a black stretch limo was waiting. Jack said goodbye to his uncle Kei and his grandfather Ken. They were both men of few words so all that was needed was a handshake and a simple goodbye.

Next, Kari gave both Jack and Popuri a hug.

"Don't stay away too long," Kari said to Jack.

"I won't," he replied.

She looked at Popuri and smiled. "And I hope you'll call me when it's time."

"You can count on it," Popuri replied, returning the smile.

"You two have a safe trip," Kari said as she looked at the two. She tried not to cry, although she was going to miss them.

"Jack?" Hoshi spoke up as she stepped up to him.

He looked down and smiled at her. He saw the tears she was fighting to not let fall. He pulled her into a hug. She buried her face in his chest and held him tight as she started crying.

"Don't go," she choked out. "Don't leave me again."

"I'm sorry Hoshi," he whispered, petting her hair. "I know you want me to stay, but I got to go home."

"This is your home," she snapped, looking up at him.

"I know," he sighed. "But, Mineral Town is my home too. I have my wife and farm to take care of. Besides, I have a whole island that relies on me. I hope you can understand."

"I don't," Hoshi muttered. "It's not fair."

"She'll understand in time," Kari spoke up as she stepped to her daughter's side.

Kari put her hands on Hoshi's shoulders and moved her away from Jack.

"Come on dear," she soothed. "Everything will be alright."

"No it won't Mom," Hoshi shot back. "Jack's leaving again."

"And you think he'll never come back?" Kari questioned.

Hoshi looked down and nodded. Kari and Jack looked at eachother and smiled.

"Come on Hoshi," Jack said. "I never said I'd never come back."

"That's right," Kari nodded, lifting Hoshi's chin to look her in the eye. "Come on dear. Be a big girl and see him off with a smile."

Hoshi sniffed and wiped her eyes with the sleeve of her shirt before giving a small nod.

"Maybe," Kari said. "If you're good, Jack will let you come visit him at his farm."

"Really?" Hoshi perked up and looked at Jack. "I can come visit?"

"Sure," Jack smiled and nodded.

She smiled and gave out a soft laugh. Jack and Kari looked at eachother again and smiled. Kari then gave Jack a hug herself.

"Take care of yourself Jack," she said in his ear. "And take care of your wife."

"I will Aunt Kari," he said back as they seperated.

Kari turned to Popuri and pulled her into a hug. Popuri smiled and hugged her back.

"Take care dear," Kari said.

"Thank you," Popuri replied. "I will."

"And," Kari pulled back and smiled. "Call me when it's time."

"We will," Popuri smiled back.

Finally, Jack stepped up to Rose and gave her a hug. Rose hugged him back and held him tight and didn't seem to want to let go. She had a few tears streaking down her face. Jack did his best to soothe her.

"I wish you didn't have to go," she whispered.

"I'm sorry Mom," he whispered back. "I know we were going to stay a week..."

"You don't need to say anything," she said as she pulled back. "We can't expect your past wounds to heal overnight."

He nodded and hugged her again, resting his forehead on her shoulder. Rose smiled and started petting the back of his head, feeling him relax in her embrace. She used to do this to soothe him when he was growing up.

"I love you mom," he whispered, lifting his head from her shoulder.

"I love you too son," she said with a smile. She put her hand on his cheek. "When you're ready..."

"I'll come back," he finished. He smiled as she took her hand from his cheek.

While Rose said goodbye to Popuri, Jack said his goodbyes to his uncles and his grandparents. Afterward, he loaded the bags into the trunk of the limo. After checking his watch, he turned to everyone gathered around.

"Well," he said. "We're going to have to go now if we're to make the train on time."

"Right," Emily said. "All aboard."

"All aboard?" Jack looked at her and raised an eyebrow.

"Hey," Emily laughed. "I don't get to say that very often."

"What the hell are you talking about Mom?" Megan spoke up. "You say that all the time."

"Whatever," Emily snapped. She opened the door to the limo. "Let's go."

Megan laughed as she and Emily got into the car. Popuri gave Rose another hug before she got into the limo as well. Jack walked up to Rose and gave her a hug.

"Take care Jack," she said, patting him on the back.

"You too Mom," he replied.

He let go of her and stepped back. He took one more look at his family. These great people he felt blessed to be related to. He couldn't help it. He was going to miss them. Not to mention, he knew now that coming back had been long overdue.

"Well everyone," Jack spoke. "Thank you for having us over. Take care of yourselves."

He bowed to all of them before getting into the car.

"Bye Jack," Hoshi called out. "Bye Popuri. Come back soon."

"We will," Jack said with a smile. "Goodbye everyone."

He closed the door and waved to his family. They waved back as the car pulled away and started down the road. Jack couldn't help but look back. The last thing he saw before the car turned down another street was his mother looking back.

"Can I ask you something Jack?" Emily said, making Jack look at her. "Why are you going home early?"

Jack looked at her for a moment before sighing and looking out the window. Popuri glanced over at him and grasped his hand. He looked back at her and smiled. She smiled back and squeezed his hand.

"He has his reasons," Popuri said, looking at Emily. "Besides, I'm feeling homesick."

"Fair enough," Megan spoke up. She knew him well enough to tell Jack didn't want to talk about this. She turned her attention to Popuri. "Did you enjoy your first trip to the big city?"

"Yes," Popuri nodded. "I had no idea how big the city really was. I spent my whole life in Mineral Town."

"I can only imagine how overwhelming this trip must have been for you," Emily spoke up. "It was probably that way when Jack moved to your town."

"It wasn't," Jack said, glancing at Emily. "I'd lived in a couple small towns before I moved to the island."

"You can't tell me there wasn't even a little culture shock," Megan said.

"Be lying if there wasn't," Jack nodded. "I got that in every place I lived."

"Where'd you end up after leaving home anyway?" Megan asked.

"I moved to the southern valley," he answered. "I worked as a farm hand. That's where I found a love for farming. Though it was a more corperate environment compared to where I am now."

"I recall you telling me the other day," Emily said. "You spent some time as a fisherman as well?"

"I did," he nodded. "For about three months. It was hard, dirty work. Though I enjoyed the challenge, I couldn't handle being at sea. I was seasick about as much as I felt fine. After one trip out, I quit and worked on the docks instead."

"So," Megan grinned. "Jack Harvest, master of all trades, met his match in the sea. So much for being a master."

Emily and Popuri both laughed. Jack too, couldn't help but laugh as well.

"Hey," he spoke up. "At least I tried."

The four continued to talk and enjoy eachother's company as their limo headed down the freeway toward the city. As it headed into town, Jack noticed they weren't heading for the train station. Since he was more familiar with the area than Popuri was, Jack realized they were headed toward the airport.

"Hold on," Jack spoke up, making the ladies look at him. "Why are we going to the airport? We're not flying out of here."

"Someone has asked me to bring you out here," Emily said.

"Here?" Jack gestured his hand toward the airport they were approaching. "Who wants to see us here?"

"You'll see," Emily replied.

The limo drove through a private gate and stopped at a large hangar. Looking up, Jack recognized the large H on the building. This was the Harvest company's hangar.

"We're here," Emily said as she got out of the car.

Megan, Popuri, and Jack followed her into the hangar and walked toward a black chopper. Jack saw his grandmother standing next to an old man who had short white hair and deep set brown eyes. He wore a blue business suit with a black tie and he carried a black cane in his right hand. When Jack saw him, he tensed up. His reaction didn't go un-noticed by Popuri.

"Jack?" she muttered, taking his hand in hers. "You alright?"

He squeezed her hand and nodded. He tried to keep a neutral look on his face, but he wasn't fooling her for a second.

"Don't lie," she said. "You tensed up as soon as you saw that man. What's wrong? Who is he?"

Jack didn't get to answer as they got to the old man. Emily stepped up to him and spoke.

"I brought them Dad," she said. "Just like you asked."

The man nodded to her and looked at Jack. Jack swallowed and stepped toward the old man.

"Hi Gramps," Jack spoke in a quiet voice.

"Speak up Jack," the old man said as he walked closer to Jack.

"Hello Gramps," Jack said in a louder voice as he extended his hand.

"You seem well boy," Gramps said as he took Jack's hand.

"You too Gramps. I'm sorry I was away for so long."

"You did what you thought was right," Gramps said, letting Jack's hand go. "Do you regret your decision?"

"For the longest time I didn't," Jack said. "Now, I wished I'd come back sooner."

"Why?" Gramps said. "Why do you wish you'd come back sooner?"

"Because," Jack looked away.

"Look at me when you speak," Gramps ordered. Jack looked back at him before continuing. "Now, answer my question."

"Because," Jack started again. "I missed out on so much here at home."

"Did you now?" Gramps said as he crossed his arms. "You lived your life while we lived ours. You missed nothing you weren't supposed to be part of."

"Dad," Emily spoke up. "You're not making any sense."

"Stay out of our conversation," Gramps spoke as he waved his hand toward Emily. He then looked back to Jack. "You've been following your own path boy. That's what really matters."

"But I wasn't here when Dad died," Jack muttered.

"And there's nothing to be done about that," Gramps said.

"I should've been there Gramps," Jack snapped.

"But you weren't," Jack's grandmother, Amelia, interjected. "Your father called out for you Jack. And you weren't there."

"I'm sorry Gram," Jack muttered as he looked down.

"Enough," Gramps spoke up.

"Sebastian?" Amelia looked at her husband.

"It's old history," Sebastian said, looking at Amelia. "Nick died five years ago. I see no point in laying blame on Jack's head."

Amelia went to say something, but stopped herself. She just huffed and walked away. Emily and Megan followed after her. Sebastian just sighed before turning back to Jack.

"That woman," Sebastian sighed.

"I'm sorry Gramps," Jack muttered.

"You've nothing to be sorry for," Sebastian said. "She's always been stubborn. She'll come around eventually."

"Yes sir," Jack nodded.

"Now then," Sebastian looked at Popuri. "Who is this young woman?"

"This," Jack extended his hand to Popuri, who took his hand in hers. "This is my.."

"I'm not talking to you Jack," Sebastian looked at Jack and held up his hand. He then turned back to Popuri. "Unless she's mute, she can speak for herself."

Jack looked away. Popuri was shocked at how much of a presence Jack's grandfather had. She'd never seen anyone like him before. Now, she felt nervous. He looked at her, waiting for her answer. She took a deep breath before speaking.

"Hello sir," she spoke in a quiet, timid voice.

"Speak up young lady," he said in a firm, yet gentle voice. A complete 180 from how he spoke to Jack.

"I'm sorry sir," she replied. She then spoke a little louder. "My name is Popuri sir." She gave him a slight bow. "I'm Jack's wife."

"You needn't bow to me young lady," he said with a small smile. He then extended his hand to her. "My name's Sebastian Harvest. Pleased to meet you."

Popuri shook his hand and returned the smile. She was amazed at how firm of a handshake he had for such a frail looking man.

"Jack's wife huh?" Sebastian said. "I can see my grandson has good taste."

Popuri looked down and blushed, which made Sebastian let out a loud, hearty laugh. Jack grinned. It looked like his grandfather approved of his wife. At least, he hoped he did.

"Gramps?" Jack spoke up, making Sebastian look at him. "I was wondering why you had Emily bring us here? We have a train to catch."

"Indeed," Sebastian scoffed. He gestured for them to walk with him. "I had hoped to see my grandson before he went home. Is that a good enough reason for you Jack?"

"Didn't mean to come off as rude," Jack muttered.

"If I thought you were rude," Sebastian glanced at him as they walked. "I would have told you."

Jack sighed. For his entire life he never could figure out his grandfather. He never did give him a straight answer on anything. Sensing his unease, Popuri reached over and took his hand in hers. Jack looked at her and smiled.

Sebastian lead Jack and Popuri over to the chopper. There were a couple of men working on the machine.

"Get that thing ready for takeoff," Sebastian ordered.

"Yes sir," one man answered.

"I did have something I wished to speak with you about Jack," Sebastian said as he faced Jack and Popuri.

"What about?" Jack asked.

"I will ask you once again," Sebastian spoke in his stern voice. "Why did you return Jack?"

"I answered you already Gramps," Jack replied in an irritated voice.

"You said what came easy to you," Sebastian shot back. "You've never really left here. What's holding you here?"

"I don't understand?" Jack said in a low voice. "Nothing's holding me here."

"Don't lie to me Jack," Sebastian said. He didn't sound angry or anything for that matter. He was good at hiding his emotions. "More importantly, don't lie to yourself. A big part of you never left here when you did."

"That's not true," Jack spat.

"Isn't it? You still carry the anger for your father, and the remorse of not being there when he died. It's become an anchor that is holding you here and preventing you from moving on with your life."

Jack wanted to say something, but he couldn't form words. He closed his eyes and turned away from his grandfather. He wanted to argue his words, but in the back of his mind, Sebastian's words rang true. No matter what he's done with his life, part of him always dwelled on his father, and their last words.

"But I...," Jack stammered.

"But nothing," Sebastian snapped. He motioned for Jack to follow him. "Walk with me boy."

Jack followed his grandfather, leaving Popuri standing alone. She watched Jack and Sebastian from a distance. She wished she could hear what they were talking about. Maybe she spent too much time around the gossip girls back home.

"Popuri?" Megan called.

Popuri looked over at Megan, who waved her over to join her, Emily, and Amelia, who were gathered by the limo. She glanced back at Jack and Sebastian before joining the other ladies. Though they were family to her, she still felt out of place. She couldn't wait to go home. She'd craved adventure her whole life, yet it never occured to her how unnerving it could be. Perhaps, in the future, her and Jack could do some traveling together. Have some of the adventures she craved and see the places she'd always dreamed of seeing. She always tells herself they have all the time in the world.

Jack and Sebastian walked out of the hangar as the crew prepared the chopper.

"Listen Jack," Sebastian said as he stopped and looked at his grandson. "I'm going to be blunt with you. You need to leave here and not look back."

"Huh?" Jack looked quizically at his grandfather. "What are you talking about Gramps?"

"Let me put this another way," Sebastian said. "You called this place home? If so, why are you going back to that farm you run? What's so important about it?"

"What's important?" Jack replied. He wasn't sure what Sebastian was getting at. "It's my home."

"But you just said this is your home."

"This is my home too Gramps," Jack said in a low voice.

"What makes this place your home Jack?" Sebastian asked.

"That's easy Gramps," Jack answered. "My family is here. You and Gram. Mom is here."

"Alright," Sebastian nodded. "But, what's on that island? What's there that makes it your home?"

"My friends are there," Jack answered. "I met my wife there. Her family is there and it's where we got married."

"So," Sebastian said in a suprisingly gentler voice. A tone Jack rarely heard from him. "You've got friends and family there. A family that you built for yourself."

"Yes?"

"So," Sebastian's voice returned to the neutral tone. "Where is home Jack? Here, or on that little Island?"

"On the island," Jack answered without a second thought.

"Then go home Jack," Sebastian went back to the gentle tone. "Leave all the baggage you've been carrying behind. The anger you have for your father will only poison your soul, which will poison your relationship with your wife."

Jack looked down and closed his eyes. His grandfather was right. He had to let his anger go.

"I said before Jack," Sebastian continued. "This isn't your home anymore. Yes, you grew up here. But, home is where you build your life. I built mine here and you are building yours on a farm, your farm."

Finally, it was time for Jack and Popuri to go. The chopper was ready to take them to the port. Megan decided to go with them to make sure they got where they needed to get to. As the chopper's blades spun, Jack said his goodbyes. First, it was to his aunt Emily.

"Take care Jack," she said as he hugged her.

"You too Emily," he said back.

"And call me when your child is born."

"Will do."

As Emily said her goodbyes to Popuri, Jack approached his grandmother Amelia. She seemed to fidgit a little.

"Bye Gram," Jack said in a reserved voice. "Please take care of yourself."

"Be well Jack," she replied, her voice seemed distant and unsure. She seemed to be just being polite.

Jack nodded and made to step away from her. Before he could, she put her hand on his arm. She looked in his eyes before she pulled him into a gentle hug. He was shocked for just a moment before he hugged her back. They didn't say anything while they stayed that way for about a minute before they seperated.

"Will you write me?" Amelia asked. "Let me know how you're doing?"

"I will Gram," Jack answered.

Jack and Popuri went to the chopper where a crew member helped her into it. Before Jack could get in Sebastian stopped him by grabbing him by the shoulder, making him face his grandfather.

"Take care of yourself boy," Sebastian said in a loud voice so he could be heard over the chopper blades.

"You too Gramps," Jack said back.

"Leave the demons of the past here Jack," Sebastian said as he shook Jack's hand. "The future belongs to you and your family. Live for that and be the best man you can be."

"I'll do my best Gramps," Jack replied.

"That's all that can be asked," Sebastian said with a small smile. "Now, go home Jack. Where you belong."

"Thank you Gramps," Jack smiled back. "I'll be seeing you."

Jack got in the chopper with Megan and Popuri and closed the door. Sebastian, Amelia, and Emily backed away as the chopper lifted off the ground. They waved as the chopper lifted higher into the air. The craft then turned and began it's flight.

Jack leaned back in his seat and sighed. It's been a long couple of days and he had felt overwhelmed. Aside from his grandmother, his visit with his father's family had gone better than he thought. Though by the end, it seemed his grandmother was softening. He had no idea his leaving five years ago had effected everyone so much. It's easy for him to realize now that he'd handled things the wrong way back then. But, as his grandfather had said, it's time to leave his past demons behind.

Jack is pulled out of his thoughts by a hand tightly grasping his hand. He looked over at Popuri, who had her eyes closed and was trembling. She seemed nervous, almost scared. He couldn't blame her though. After all, this was, to his best knowledge, the first time she'd ever flown. He squeezed her hand back, making her look at him. He gave her a gentle smile. She gave him a nervous smile in return.

"It's alright," he said.

"I'm sorry," she replied. "I just can't stop shaking."

"It's fine dear," he said as he let her hand go and put his arm around her shoulder. "You've never flown before so you have every right to be nervous."

Popuri relaxed when her put his arm around her. Just him being here helped put her at ease. It's been a long couple of days for her. Growing up she'd desired some adventure and to see new places. Now, after only three or four days, she was looking forward to going home. Maybe she wasn't as ready for the world as she thought she was. She was then shaken from her inner thoughts by Jack's voice.

"Honey," he muttered, pointing out the window. "Look."

Popuri looked out the window and was awestruck. They were flying near the large skyscrapers. They were so close with the many other buildings, houses, and factories scattered almost to the horizon beyond. She'd never seen such an amazing sight in her young life. She found herself moving away from Jack to put her hands on the window and look down at the city, her initial fear of being in the air all but forgotten.

It was a pretty peaceful helicopter ride from North City to the port city of Lewistown. It took about two hours before they reached the helipad at the port. Jack, along with the pilot, unloaded the baggage and moved it to a car that will take them to the docks.

"Refuel the chopper," Megan said to the pilot. "I'll see them to the dock and return shortly."

"Yes ma'am," the pilot replied.

It was a short ride from the helipad to the dock. When they arrived, Jack saw a familiar boat and a familiar face waiting for them.

"Hey there kids," Zack bellowed with a grin and a wave.

"Zack," Popuri waved back. "Great to see you."

"Thanks for coming Zack," Jack said with a smile.

"Not a problem Jack," Zack replied as he helped get the bags out of the car trunk. "Had to do a mail run today anyway."

Zack and Jack wasted little time getting the luggage aboard. While Zack took care of the mail bags, Jack and Popuri would say their goodbyes to Megan.

"I trust you'll write me?" Megan asked Popuri.

"I will," Popuri smiled and nodded. "I hope we can be friends."

"Can be?" Megan laughed. "I thought we already were friends. Besides,we are family."

Megan and Popuri hugged eachother before Popuri stepped back and got on the boat.

"You have an amazing woman there Jack," Megan said as she looked at Jack.

"Yes," Jack nodded. "Meeting her has been the best thing to ever happen to me. I truly am blessed."

"That you are," Megan sighed. Her tone turned somber.

"Meg?" Jack looked at her and put a hand on her shoulder. "What's wrong?"

He noticed she seemed to be fighting tears. This worried him greatly. What was bothering her? that was the question that went through his mind.

"After all this time," she said in a low voice. "You finally came back. Now, you're leaving again. It makes me feel lonely Jack."

"I'm sorry Meg," Jack pulled her into a hug. "But, I have to go back to Mineral Town."

She hugged him back, holding to hard Jack wondered if she was going to crush him.

"I know," she muttered. "I still don't have to like it. And, I don't want to let you go."

"This time," Jack said. "You'll know where I am."

She nodded as she reluctantly let him go. She smiled at him as she wiped a couple of tears from her eyes. He smiled back at her.

"I wish you didn't have to leave," Megan said. "The city is your home."

"I know Meg," he replied. "And it always will be since I grew up , Mineral Town is where I belong now. It's where I've chosen to call home. Gramps helped me realize that I don't belong in North City anymore. I belong in Mineral Town. Your life is in the city while mine is on my little farm."

"I understand Jack," Megan nodded. "Doesn't make it any easier."

"I know," Jack nodded.

"We had some great times though," Megan laughed.

"Got in a lot of trouble too," Jack laughed as well.

"We'll share those stories next time."

"Right," Jack nodded.

They both jumped slightly when Zack blew the boat horn.

"It's time," Jack said. He then pulled Megan into another hug. "I'm going to miss you Meg."

"I'm gonna miss you too Jack," Megan muttered into his ear.

After they let eachother go, Megan gave Jack a paper that had her phone number on it.

"Give me a call sometime," Megan said.

"Right," Jack nodded as he put the paper in his pocket. "I'll make sure to call you when Popuri goes into labor."

"You better," she nodded.

Jack turned away from her and got on the boat.

"Goodbye Jack," Megan called with a wave. "Goodbye Popuri. Have a safe trip."

"Goodbye," Popuri waved back.

"Bye Meg," Jack waved.

The boat pulled away from the dock and turned toward open water. Jack and Popuri watched Megan walk away from the dock as she headed back home. After which, Jack and Popuri sat on a bench by the wheelhouse and relaxed. It was a two and a half hour boat ride back to Mother's Island.

Jack looked at the sky and sighed. For the moment, all the stress of the past few days melted away. He hadn't felt at peace the whole time they were in the city. He didn't know how he survived all those years around all those people.

A half hour after the boat left, Jack stood and walked to the railing and watched the water. In the distance he could just see Mother's Island coming into view. As he focused his eyes there, his mind wandered to all the past events that lead his life to this point. The incident with his father that started his odyssey. His time as a farm hand which helped him discover his true love for farming, though he hadn't realized it at the time.

Popuri watched Jack from her seat on the bench. She knew him well enough to know that he wasn't there. She shook her head and sighed. If there was one thing that had irritated her on this trip was that he was keeping her at arm's length. Why won't he let her in?

She slowly stood and stepped up behind him and wrapped her arms around his waist and rested her cheek against his back.

Jack jumped slightly when he felt Popuri put her arms around him. He put his hands on hers and gently squeezed them.

"Where are you Jack?" Popuri whispered.

"Back home," he answered, keeping his eyes fixed on the water.

She sighed and shook her head. Back home. Now she was questioning why they even decided to go back to Mineral Town if he was already thinking of home.

"I see," she muttered. "There's still time to go back."

He laughed softly as he shook his head. She turned her eyes up toward the back of his head. Why was he laughing.

"I'm not thinking of North City," Jack said, still focusing on the horizon. "I'm thinking of home...in Mineral Town. It's where you and all my friends live."

Popuri, hearing him say that, tightened her grip around his waist and buried her face in his back.

"Grandpa Sebastian told me to let go of my past," Jack continued. "The only way I know how to do that is to go back where I truly belong."

He turned around in her grip and put his arms around her and held her tight. She tightened her grip a little more and buried her face in his chest.

"I belong with you," he whispered. "Wherever you go, no matter what you want to do, I'm going to be there for you."

She felt a couple tears come to her eyes. This sweet talker was the Jack she knew. The one who stole her heart. The one she married. She'd missed him these last few days.

"Wherever I go?" she whispered. "No matter what?"

"No matter what," he replied.

"Okay," she whispered, looking up at him and giving him a sweet smile. "Let's go home my love."

Two hours seemed to fly and, before Jack knew it, the boat horn blared as they approached the dock at Mineral Town. Jack and Popuri smiled at the welcome, and familiar sight of their small town. It had only been a couple days, but it felt like forever to the both of them.

Jack took some time to help Zack secure the boat and off load the mail bags and his and Popuri's luggage. After he was done, Zack gave his thanks before Jack picked up the luggage. With a nod, Jack and Popuri headed up the stairs into the square.

As was normal for the time of day, which was just after noon, the "Gossip Sisters" of Anna, Manna, and Sasha were gathered at the north end of the square. They waved when they noticed Jack and Popuri. Popuri smiled and waved back before they headed out the south gate.

"Feels good to be back," Jack said as he took a deep breath.

Popuri nodded and smiled. She had to admit, it was good to be home. She watched the cows in the fields of Barley's farm. She spent many days growing up watching and even playing with the cows.

As they started past the poultry farm, Rick, who had just finished taking care of the chickens and was about to process the eggs, caught sight of his sister and brother-in-law.

"HEY!" he called out.

Jack looked over and saw Rick waving at them. He grinned and nodded toward him, since his hands were full with the luggage.

"Hi Rick," Popuri called back, giving him a wave and a bright smile.

Rick walked up to them just in time for Popuri to give him a crushing hug. He had no choice but to hug her back, lest he want to have her crush his ribs.

"You're home early," Rick finally said after Popuri finally let him go.

"I know," Jack said, sitting the luggage down and stretching his arms.

"Did things not go well?" Rick asked.

"Let's just say a lot happened," Jack replied. He looked at Popuri, who looked back and gave him a gentle smile. He then looked back at Rick. "I promise I'll tell you more later."

"Right," Rick nodded. "Still, it's good to see you two. Honestly, this place isn't the same without you." He grinned and ruffled Popuri's hair. "Especially you gremlin."

"GREMLIN!" Popuri puffed her cheeks and stamped her foot. "The hell do you get off calling me that?"

Jack and Rick both laughed, which irritated Popuri even more.

"STOP LAUGHING AT ME!" she shouted.

They laughed more before Jack calmed down and rubbed Popuri's back. She responded by glaring at him.

"Sorry honey," he said to her.

"You better be mister," she replied, poking him in the chest. "Remember, I know where you live."

"God I hope so," Jack shot back.

Rick laughed again, but it was short lived as Popuri gave him an angry glare.

"Calm down sis," he said. "Geez, you take things so personal sometime."

"I am calm," she snapped at him.

"You know," Jack interjected. "I think we better get home. It's been a long couple days, and I'm tired."

"Right," Rick nodded. He knew Jack was trying to put out this little fire before it could get any hotter. He noticed that Popuri's temper was a little more volitile these days.

"We'll talk more later," Jack said to Rick as he picked up the luggage.

"I look forward to it," Rick replied as he turned back toward the gate. "See you guys later. And, welcome home."

"Later Rick," Jack said with a grin.

Popuri huffed and started walking home. Jack sighed and ran to catch up to her. He just didn't get her sometimes. She took simple ribbing so serious sometimes. It's gotten worse since she got pregnant. He also knew he had to get her to calm down. Last thing he wanted was to spend the rest of the day with her while she's in a tiff.

"You know he wasn't trying to piss you off," Jack said in his usual calm voice.

She didn't answer while they walked. She didn't say anything for the rest of the walk back to the farm. Jack had to grin when he saw their house. It was a sight for sore eyes. He'd grown so attached to this place that when he'd stepped foot in his mother's place, where he spent much of his life, he felt out of place.

They stopped walking when they reached the porch. Jack noticed Cliff was tending to his field for him. He was a good friend. Jack didn't know what he'd do without him. He owed him a drink for all his help.

Popuri went in the house, followed by Jack. After he closed the door and put the bags down, he turned his attention to Popuri.

"You gonna continue giving me the silent treatment?" he asked.

She kept her back to him for a moment before turning around and looking at him. She looked like she was on the edge of tears as she looked down.

"I'm sorry," she whispered. "I don't know why I acted like that. I just couldn't stop myself."

Jack sighed and shook his head. Her emotions are going crazy today. He walked over to her and took her in his arms. She wrapped her arms around his waist and held him tight.

"You're forgiven love," he muttered. "You should apologize to Rick later though."

"I will," she replied before pulling away from him. She looked at him and gave a small smile. "Some way to come home huh. Barely back and I've already lashed out at my brother."

Jack took the bags into the bedroom so they could unpack. After they finished that, Jack decided to get changed back into his farming clothes, a red flannel shirt, overalls, his work boots and gloves, and finally a blue bandana around his neck and baseball cap. He felt a lot better in these clothes. After changing, he went outside to let Cliff know they were back. He was also hoping to get a little work done. "Getting back in the groove" as he would call it.

Jack went into the barn where he found Cliff feeding the cows.

"Could you use some help Cliff?" Jack asked, making Cliff look up.

"Hey boss," Cliff said with a big smile. "When did you get back?"

"About an hour ago," Jack answered as they shook hands.

"Well," Cliff nodded. "Welcome home. Only been a couple days. But, we missed you around here."

"We missed you guys too," Jack replied.

With Jack and Cliff working together, it took just over an hour to get all the animals taken care of. Afterward, they sat on the porch and sighed.

"Only a couple days away," Jack said as he looked at the field. "Only a couple days, and I can't believe how much I missed all this."

Cliff just laughed. They sat in quietly for a few more minutes before Cliff broke the silence.

"Best I can tell," he said. "It looks like the crops will be ready by early next week. Also looks like a bumper crop of turnips. You went crazy with them this year."

"Yeah," Jack nodded. "I went a little overboard on them. Also went heavy on the strawberries. I think I better choose a better fertilizer next year. Assume you'd be interested in assisting with the harvest?"

"If you could use the help," Cliff grinned.

"You know it," Jack replied, giving Cliff a thumbs up. "I'll even pay you the same percentage I did last summer."

They talked a few more minutes before Cliff left to go home. Jack sat alone on the porch for a few minutes before he went back in the house. He left his boots by the door and went into the livingroom. Popuri was sitting on the couch, reading a book. He walked around the couch and laid down. He laid his head in her lap.

"What are you doing?" she asked, looking down at him.

"Just felt like laying on the couch," he replied, grinning up at her.

"Is that all?" she asked as she smiled back at him.

"I also wanted to be close to you," he answered in a quiet voice. "Is that alright with you?"

She blushed lightly as she put her book down. She gently put one hand on his forehead and found his hand with her other.

"Of course," she whispered.

Jack closed his eyes and let out a long, content sigh. Popuri started to gently pet his hair. She watched her husband as his breathing started to slow. It had been a long couple days for them both. As long and tough it'd seemed to her, she could only imagine what it'd been like for him.

She'd met so many members of his family. They all seemed like nice people to her, even Jack's grandparents. Sebastian reminded her of her own grandfather, though he died when she was little.

She really liked Megan, who reminded her of Karen. She wondered how those two would get along. Maybe they'll get to meet one day. Hoshi, Jack's young cousin, was someone she'd like to get to know better. Hopefully, they'll be able to build a relationship with eachother.

Jack laid there with his eyees closed. He felt his body relax when Popuri started petting his hair. The stress of the last few days felt like a ton of bricks on his shoulders. Now that it was over, and the weight lifted, he felt an exaustion he hadn't felt in a long time. He felt sleep trying to take him and he didn't have the strength to fight it. As he drifted, he thought about the changes of fortune in his life over the last couple of days.

The last few days have been more mentally taxing on me than I ever want to admit to anyone. It's been a long time since I've felt this drained. I've worked many jobs in my young life that's taxed me near to the breaking point, and I've never felt this tired. I've done all I can to make sure Popuri doesn't see. I don't want her to worry about me. Though I get the feeling she can see right through me. Besides Mom, I've never known anyone who could see through all my shields and masks.

I went home to tell my family the news of a new member on the way. Also I wanted to make contact with the rest of the family. For the most part, all went well. Gram's reaction to me is what baffled me the most. I didn't know she blamed me for Dad's death. That hurt bad. I'd never felt such pain before. I'd always been so close to her too. Aunt Emily tried to reasure me that she didn't truly blame me. She'd taken Dad's death hard. As if I didn't? At the time, my anger for what he'd said to me still clouded my mind back then. That's why I stayed away. I didn't get a real chance to talk to Gram. I wanted to tell her how much I still loved her. I hope I'll still get a chance to tell her everything I feel.

Before we left, Gramps helped me to at least start to let the past go. He's such a hard ass, but he's always been able to get me to take a fresh look at things. Perhaps, one day, he'll tell me how he does it. However, he helped me truly see my priorities in life. I don't belong in the city anymore. I belong here on Mother's Island. In Mineral Town. My farm, friends, and life are here now. Most precious of all, this is where Popuri was born. It's where we met, became friends, and fell in love. She's the center of my world and the golden treasure that lights my life.

My name is Jack Harikawa...no...My name is Jack Harvest. I am the son of Nick and Rose Harvest. I am the owner of Moonlight Farm, and am the luckiest man in the world. I have the best friends any man can ask for. And I am married to the greatest woman I have ever met. And she has blessed me with the child she is now carrying. I don't know what our future holds, but I do know the future is bright.

The End of Part IV

Author's Notes: It's been a long time since I posted on this story. Many things have been going on in my life so I had to step away from writing. But now, I'm back and am ready to go again.

This last part with Jack's past has not been easy to write, but I hope I did it some justice. I know I didn't go super deep, and I kinda ended it a little abruptly, but I felt I needed to get my characters back home. I have intentions of revisiting his past in the future.

Finally, I've got part 5 of the story coming, which will bring me to the birth of Jack and Popuri's child. I've decided that this event, this story will come to an end. Meaning part 5 will be the last sequence. I have already made plans to expand this story in future stories. How long this last sequence will take I can't say.

Those of you who have stuck with me, from the bottom of my heart, I thank you.