Chapter 3: Waiting Without Fear
The next day, Lily returned to the garden earlier than usual. The morning air felt cool, and the grass was still wet with dew.
She sat quietly under the old tree, her hands resting on her knees. This time, she didn't search the sky or look around nervously. She simply waited.
Minutes passed. The garden remained silent.
Just when Lily thought she might be alone, a familiar flutter broke the stillness. The little bird appeared again, landing gently on the same low branch as before.
Lily felt her heart beat faster, but she stayed calm. She remembered how suddenly it had flown away last time.
"I won't scare you," she whispered, barely louder than the wind.
The bird chirped softly, hopping a little closer. There was no fear in its movements now—only curiosity.
For the first time, Lily understood something important. Trust wasn't built by chasing or calling out. It was built by patience.
As the sun rose higher, the bird spread its wings and flew off once more.
Lily watched it disappear into the bright sky, smiling.
Waiting no longer felt lonely. It felt hopeful.