Lila, a small girl with tangled brown hair and patched clothes, sits on her bunk by the window, tracing raindrops on the glass with her finger. She gazes out at the world, her eyes filled with longing and curiosity. The soft patter of rain is her only companion, and she sighs, wishing for something more.
Lila wanders outside, drawn by a flutter of color beneath the wall. Tugging at the gate, she discovers it opens into a hidden garden, overgrown but bursting with wildflowers and butterflies. The sweet scent of blossoms fills the air, and for a moment, she forgets the world’s sadness.
Tommy, another orphan, meets Lila’s gaze and offers a shy smile.
"I come here to draw birds,"
"I’ve never seen this place before. It’s like magic,"
Lila[/@ch_1] and Tommy return to the garden, their laughter mingling with the chirping of birds. They build a tiny fort from fallen branches and trade stories beneath the apple tree’s shade. The garden becomes a world of their own, far from the orphanage’s gloom.]
Lila finds hope blooming in her heart as they chase butterflies and share secrets. The sunlight feels warmer, and even the old swing outside seems to creak with possibility.
Lila[/@ch_1] uncovers a buried tin box. Its lid is decorated with faded flowers, and inside are yellowed letters and a silver locket. The letters tell tales of family, dreams, and journeys far away.]
"Someone else loved this garden, long ago,"
"Maybe they found happiness, too. Maybe we can, someday,"
Lila stands at the garden gate, the silver locket around her neck, and smiles. She no longer feels alone, for she has found friendship, hope, and a place to call her own.
