The Stubborn Leaf

One leaf refused to fall from Grandpa Oak, the ancient tree protecting a quiet

village. Every autumn, while thousands dropped, this single golden

leaf clung to the highest branch. Villagers called it magic, children believed

it kept harsh winters away. Then the storm came. Wind screamed, rain battered,

branches snapped. Everyone feared the worst. Morning arrived. The village was

battered, limbs scattered everywhere, but when the clouds parted,

that stubborn leaf still gleamed in the sunlight, unmoved. An old woman smiled

through her window. A father squeezed his daughter's hand. The baker opened his shop early.