The school bell had rung hours ago. Now, the classroom was very quiet and empty.
Elian sat alone at his desk. He swung his legs, listening to the silence.
Something shimmered on the windowsill. A single golden leaf rested there.
He picked it up gently. It felt crisp and light in his palm.
The sun poured through the leaf, turning it into a tiny lantern of light.
Elian watched the colors shift and dance. He didn't move a muscle.
"Pretty," he whispered to himself.
A quiet smile spread across his face. This moment belonged entirely to him.