-willow tree-

trouble beneath the surface

As Adeline and Jane continued to chat beneath the soothing branches of the willow tree, the weight of the day began to lift. and a sense of camaraderie that felt refreshing. Just as Jane was starting to feel a connection with her new friend, the peaceful atmosphere shattered.

"Adeline! Get down here now!" her father's voice boomed from the direction of their home, filled with anger and frustration. The force of his shout reverberated through the night air, and Jane felt a chill run down her spine.

Adeline's expression changed instantly, her smile vanishing as panic flickered in her eyes. "I—I have to go," she stammered, looking torn. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to—"

Before Jane could respond, Adeline jumped to her feet, her heart racing. "I'll see you around!" she called out hurriedly, her voice trembling as she dashed off into the darkness, leaving Jane sitting alone beneath the willow.

Confusion washed over Jane as she watched Adeline disappear into the night. What had just happened? The warmth of their connection felt abruptly severed, replaced by an unsettling silence. The laughter that had filled the air moments before faded into the background, and Jane was left with a myriad of questions.

She sat there for a moment, glancing at the path Adeline had taken, feeling a mix of concern and curiosity. Why had Adeline's father been so angry? What could have possibly happened that would cause her to rush off like that? The night felt heavy with unspoken words, and Jane wondered if this new friendship was more complicated than she had initially thought.

As the moonlight filtered through the leaves above, Jane couldn't shake the feeling that she had stumbled upon something deeper, a glimpse into the challenges Adeline faced. With a sigh, she leaned back against the trunk of the willow tree, contemplating the unexpected turns life often took, and hoping that she would soon see her new friend again.