Nora smiled and began the walk home, leaving footprints that would be gone by morning. Inside, she would light the first fire of the season. Outside, the world would learn to sleep.
Here’s a short story draft based on the prompt “winter season begins.” winter season begins
She reached the old oak at the crossroads. Last autumn’s leaves lay curled at its roots like closed hands. She knelt and placed a small bundle of dried herbs—rosemary for remembrance, sage for strength—into a hollow at the base. An old village custom. An offering to the season ahead. Nora smiled and began the walk home, leaving