One Story And One Picture Week #17

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THE SECRET GARDEN

Once upon a time, there was a young girl named Mary. A lonely girl who had lost her parents and been sent to live with a distant relative in a gloomy, old manor house.

One day, as Mary was exploring the manor grounds, she came across a locked door that led to a hidden garden. She was curious about the garden and what might be inside, but she couldn't find a key to open the door.

Every day, Mary would return to the garden door, hoping to find a way in. And then one day, as she was sitting by the door, she heard a small, sweet voice.
"Hello," the voice said.
Mary looked around, but she couldn't see anyone. Then she noticed a robin perched on the branch of a tree nearby. The robin stared at her with bright, black eyes.
"Who are you?" Mary asked the robin.
"I'm the garden's secret keeper," the robin replied. "And I know how to get inside."
Mary couldn't believe what she was hearing. Was the robin really talking to her? Could it really show her how to get into the garden?
The robin fluttered down from the branch and landed at Mary's feet.
"Come with me," the robin said. "I'll take you to a place where you can see the key."
Mary followed the robin down a winding path through the woods. They passed trees and bushes, and the robin chirped happily as it led the way. After a while, they came to a small clearing. In the center of the clearing was a large rock, and on top of the rock was a small key.
"There it is," the robin said. "The key to the secret garden."
Mary reached out and picked up the key. It was old and rusty, but it looked sturdy. She turned to the robin.
"What should I do now?" she asked.
"Follow me," the robin said.

Mary followed the robin back to the door. The robin hopped up onto the door and pointed to a keyhole with its beak. Mary slipped the key into the keyhole and turned it. There was a click, and the door slowly swung open.

Mary gasped. Before her eyes was a garden unlike any she had ever seen. Flowers of every color bloomed in neat rows and lush green grass stretched out before her. There were trees laden with fruit, and a pond glistened in the sunlight. Birdsong filled the air, and the scent of jasmine and roses wafted through the garden.
Mary couldn't believe her eyes. She had never seen such a beautiful place. The robin hopped onto her shoulder and nuzzled her cheek.
"Welcome to the secret garden," it said.
Mary smiled and stepped into the garden. She knew that this place would be her sanctuary, and that she would never be lonely again.

THE END

I also wish to invite @patjewell @josepha @waterjoe and @ridwant to also participate in this contest.
I'd also like to know your feedbacks on my story. Thanks everyone.