The Lantern by the River
One quiet evening, Mira walked along the riverbank, carrying a small paper lantern. It was the night of the Lantern Festival, but she had come alone. The town behind her buzzed with laughter and music, but out here, the world was still.
She stopped by the old willow tree where her father used to take her when she was small. Kneeling by the water, she lit the candle inside the lantern. The soft glow reflected on the gentle waves.
“For you,” she whispered.
She set the lantern afloat and watched it drift away. One by one, other lights appeared on the water—some near, some far—each carrying someone’s wish, someone’s memory.
As the lanterns floated down the river, Mira smiled. She no longer felt alone. The night carried all their stories together, glowing softly under the moonlight.
