Nine
Secrets in the SnowTiny, perfect ice crystals floated to the ground, each one as unique as a fingerprint. The gentle fall of snow was mesmerizing. The dull landscape of withered browns and faded greens transformed into a pristine white canvas, crisp and cool–exhilarating. It was the first real snowfall of the season, and I would step outside and revel at the moment before snow and winter became more trouble than beauty.
I walked out through the front entrance of the compound, shut the door on the world within the walls, and stepped into magic.
My hands pushed deep inside my pockets, I moved out from under the cover of the portico, and tilted my face toward the pale grey sky. I closed my eyes and enjoyed the tiny snowflakes as they landed with a gentle touch and melted on my skin.
