Story Branch
I looked at the pristine wooden house in front of me and then looked back at the dense forest behind me. The narrow path I had just walked seemed to disappear into the shadows of the towering trees, as if the woods were trying to swallow it whole. It was an eerie contrast to the welcoming sight of the house, with its charming, hand-carved shutters and a small garden blooming with vibrant flowers.
[p]
I took a deep breath and approached the front door, the sound of my footsteps muted by the soft moss underfoot. As I reached for the brass knocker, the door swung open on its own, revealing a cozy interior bathed in the warm glow of a fireplace.
[p]
"Hello?" I called out, stepping cautiously inside. The air was filled with the comforting scent of pine and fresh bread.
[p]
"Come in, dear," a gentle voice beckoned from deeper within the house. I followed the voice to a spacious kitchen, where an elderly woman stood at the counter, kneading dough with expert hands. Her silver hair was neatly tied back, and her eyes twinkled with a mixture of kindness and mischief.
[p]
"I've been expecting you," she said with a knowing smile, as if we were old friends.
[p]
"Expecting me? But I didn't tell anyone I was coming," I replied, puzzled.
[p]
She chuckled softly. "The forest has its ways of guiding those who need to be here. Sit, rest a while. You must have many questions."
[p]
I hesitated but then took a seat at the kitchen table. The woman placed a freshly baked loaf of bread in front of me, its crust golden and inviting. "My name is Elara," she said. "This house has stood here for centuries, welcoming weary travelers like yourself."
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Children