Nancy twirls in her favorite yellow sunhat, giggling as she chases a darting blue butterfly. Her family’s voices fade as she ventures away, drawn by the butterfly’s shimmering wings.
"Wait for me, little butterfly!"
Nancy looks around, the cobblestones unfamiliar beneath her feet. She clutches her sunhat, missing the comfort of her family’s laughter.
"Where did everyone go?"
Mabel is introduced: A girl exactly Nancy’s age, wearing a tiny, oversized apron and busy arranging lemon drops.
Mabel spots Nancy, her face brightening at the prospect of a new friend.
"Are you lost? You look like you need a lemon drop," she says, sliding a candy across the counter.
"Thank you... I think I wandered too far," murmurs Nancy, accepting the treat.
"If you follow the smell of cinnamon and listen for the birds, you’ll find the path back," advises Mabel, her eyes shining.
"Will you come with me? I feel braver with a friend," asks Nancy.
"I wish I could, but I have to help here. Take this lemon drop—it’s magic for courage,"
Ben is introduced: A boy who helps Nancy, though she is at first wary of him.
Ben approaches, noticing Nancy's uncertainty.
"Are you alright? You look hungry—my grandma’s house is just around the corner,"
"I’m not sure... Are you a good person?" Nancy asks, her voice trembling.
"I promise! Grandma makes the best bread. Come with me, you’ll be safe,"
Nancy works beside Ben, grateful for the kindness and food. She remembers Mabel’s advice, feeling courage grow inside her.
"Thank you for helping me. I feel less lost now,"
Nancy runs into her father’s arms, her family enveloping her in warmth.
"I missed you all so much. I met wonderful friends and learned to be brave,"
Her grandmother wipes tears, her brother laughs, and the family returns to the meadow, their hearts stitched together by the adventure.
















