Deep in an emerald forest, where sunlight danced through the leaves, lived an old woman. Her name was Elara, and though her cottage was cozy and the animals were her friends, a deep loneliness dwelled in her heart. For all her life, she had wished for a child to love. One dewy morning, hoping to wash away her sorrow, she walked to a hidden clearing where a crystal-clear pond sparkled. As she bathed in the cool water, a splash of color at the water's edge caught her eye. She waded closer, her eyes widening in wonder. There stood the most peculiar plant she had ever seen. From a single, twisting vine grew both delicate jasmine flowers and a single, perfect red rose. And nestled among the fragrant blossoms was a large, round fruit: a watermelon. A feeling of magic hung in the air. Drawn by an unseen force, Elara carefully chose the largest and most perfect fruit. It was heavy, but her heart felt light with a hope she hadn't felt in years. She carried it home, cradling ...