Every winter, Zara lit a paper lantern and let it float into the night sky. It was her way of telling the universe her wishes — tiny secrets only the stars could hear.
This year, her wish was different. She didn’t wish for toys, grades, or even snow. She wished for her father, a sailor, to come home safely.
Weeks passed. One evening, as Zara sat by the shore, a small paper boat washed up — inside was a note:
"Coming home soon. Saw your lantern."
When her father returned, Zara ran to him. She never told anyone, but she was sure the stars had delivered her message across the sea.