The Orchard of Borrowed Seasons

At the edge of a quiet village stood an orchard where every tree grew a different season. One bore spring blossoms even in deepest winter; another dripped ripe summer peaches while snow fell around it. Travelers visited to borrow a season they missed. One day, a girl grieving her grandmother entered the orchard seeking “one more spring.” The trees rustled, and petals cascaded around her like a memory made real. She understood then that seasons couldn’t return—only the feelings they awakened. She left carrying a single blossom, glowing faintly with all she still had.