Submission (#6795) Approved

(There 217 words. Leilani prepares for fall festivities by preparing paintings for an art show.)

The autumn forest was drenched in soft light that shone through the thinning crowns of the trees. Leilani walked along the narrow path, breathing in the fresh, cool air filled with the scent of wet leaves. Her steps were light, and in her hands she held a canvas and brushes that barely touched the surface of the paper, leaving strokes of color. Everywhere she looked, nature offered new subjects.

The silence around her was broken only by the rustle of her movement and the sounds of the forest dwellers. She adored such moments - when nothing prevented her thoughts from wandering. Nature became her companion, telling stories through the shape of branches and the play of light on the ground.

But just as Leilani finished another stroke, she heard a rustle behind her. Turning around, she saw a small squirrel trying to pull a huge acorn into a hollow tree. Leilani laughed involuntarily, her voice echoing in the cool air. The squirrel froze, looking at her in surprise.

“Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you,” - she said softly, realizing her laughter was louder than she would have liked. The squirrel quickly disappeared into her hiding place.

Embarrassed but still content, Leilani turned back to her painting, smiling at how even small moments could add comfort to her day.