Eli, a curious nine-year-old with tousled brown hair and bright eyes, sat at the breakfast table, swinging his legs back and forth. His mother, Sarah, a kind woman with a tender smile, placed a plate of toast before him. "Why isn't Grandpa coming for breakfast today?" he asked, his voice tinged with innocence.

Sarah took a deep breath, kneeling beside Eli to meet his gaze. "Grandpa went on a long journey, sweetheart," she explained gently, her hand resting on his small shoulder. Eli furrowed his brow, trying to understand the weight of her words.

Eli wandered into the garden, his thoughts swirling like the petals around him. He paused by the old oak tree, remembering afternoons spent there with his grandfather. "Will I see him again?" he whispered to the wind, hoping for an answer.

Sarah joined Eli in the garden, carrying a small box filled with cherished mementos. "Grandpa loved these moments with you," she said, opening the box to reveal photos and trinkets. Eli picked up a small wooden bird his grandfather had carved, feeling the smooth surface beneath his fingers.

Eli looked up at his mother, a new understanding dawning in his eyes. "I think Grandpa is with the stars now," he said quietly, finding comfort in the thought. Sarah nodded, wrapping her arms around him in a warm embrace. "Yes, and he will always be with us in our hearts," she assured him softly.

Eli took his mother's hand, feeling a sense of closure wash over him. Together, they walked back inside, leaving the garden and its memories behind, yet carrying them always. As Eli climbed into bed, he glanced out the window at the twinkling stars, whispering a goodnight to his grandfather, knowing that some goodbyes were not forever.