Little Garden Arc Novels & Stories

(Ariel's POV) “It's time for the second phase. What are we doing for it, Raven?” I asked Raven as we took our slow and quiet stroll around the garden. Raven's hands reached out to brush the flowers. The garden was beautiful. A large expanse of land with beautiful flowers and trees forming a serene space. At least 4 different flowers adorned the garden, and the beautiful shrubs were neatly trimmed. I reached out and plucked the lavender flower, I loved the lavender color. Its color reminded me of royalty. Butterflies fluttered as I plucked a strand, and an unconscious smile formed on my lips.

The servants scattered to make way as we passed, their hurried preparations continuing without pause. As we stepped into the garden, I stopped in my tracks, momentarily stunned. They weren’t exaggerating, it truly looked like a scene from a fairy tale. Strings of twinkling lights were draped across the tall hedges, casting a soft glow over the space. Bouquets of fresh flowers in shades of blush pink, ivory, and lavender lined the pathways. At the center stood an elegant archway decorated with roses and wisteria, the perfect backdrop for an engagement announcement.

Here, tucked away from prying eyes, was Alfie’s secret sanctuary. Tall, emerald-green hedgerows formed a secluded enclosure, offering a sense of intimacy and escape. The space, roughly the size of a small room, was a gardener’s haven. Cobbled stones formed the floor, while mismatched wooden boxes overflowing with vibrant flowers lined the perimeter. A weathered armchair, its cushions faded but inviting, sat nestled beneath a sprawling wisteria vine. A well-worn wooden bench offered another seating option, surrounded by terracotta pots overflowing with exotic ferns and trailing ivy.

They shared quiet moments, passing tools back and forth, smiling at each other between tasks, their hands occasionally brushing, their eyes meeting with a warmth that needed no words. As the sun began to sink lower in the sky, casting long shadows over the garden, Nicholas finally stood back, wiping the sweat from his brow as he admired his handiwork. The arbor was simple but beautiful, a wooden archway that framed the view of the garden and the distant cliffs beyond. The vines Lillian had chosen were already winding up its base, promising a future filled with green leaves and delicate flowers.

“But I don't think you are exactly the picnic and flowers type, Damian.” He didn’t reply, just stopped in front of a tall iron gate entwined with vines. With one hand, he pushed it open. Aria gasped. On the other side stretched a garden bursting with color—rows of white roses, jasmine, lilies, a fountain in the center, and tucked beneath the shade of olive trees, a swing seat draped with cushions. Her eyes widened. “You… did this?” Damian’s jaw tightened, like he wasn’t used to explaining himself. “You said once that gardens remind you of your grandmother. That they made you feel safe.” His gaze softened. “So I built one for you. Here. So you never forget what safety feels like.”

The silence. And calls it sacred. One child—Auri—recently placed a folded thought into the Field. We do not know how she folded it. Only that when it touched the center, the Field shimmered— and a garden bloomed where none had ever been planted. It was made entirely of forgotten paths. Stone steps leading to choices no one made. Bridges that never held footsteps. Benches shaped by waiting. We call it the Garden of Almost. We go there not to mourn.

So, I follow Anna as she leads me towards the stairs. Anna shows me around the sprawling gardens, pointing out the various features. We come across a beautiful pool, which is currently covered, and a hot tub nearby, which is on, the water bubbling below the cover as evidence. The house, nestled among the rolling hills, is adorned with arches made of roses and climbing vines, which serve to camouflage it even further.

“You’ll love it! Arlo’s mother designed it herself, and it’s one of the most beautiful spots in the house.” As they stepped outside into the garden, Lune was immediately struck by the vibrant colors of the flowers and the lush greenery surrounding them. The scent of blooming flowers filled the air, and a small fountain bubbled gently in the center of the space, creating a serene atmosphere. “It’s beautiful,” Lune breathed, taking in the scene around her. “I can’t believe I’ve been missing out on this!” Mary smiled, clearly pleased with Lune’s reaction. “It’s a great place to relax and unwind. Arlo often comes here to think when he needs some time alone.”

She quietly walked towards the garden. Her eyes turned round in admiration when she spotted multiple canopies standing in the garden. They were small in size but at least twenty in number. Their presence was giving a romantic air. She walked nearer and saw a man mowing the grass. The preparation was in full swing. Her wandering eyes clapped onto Azriel who was engaged in a conversation with one of the workers. She watched as he drew a breath and suddenly stopped talking. She began to count in her head. 1..2..."

Joy was easily frightened, and I often couldn’t resist gently teasing her. As I approached, I paused for a moment to admire the breathtaking scenery. My eyes were drawn to the vibrant tapestry of flowers in full bloom. The entire garden resembled a private paradise, bursting with colorful roses, lilies, hydrangeas, and fragrant jasmine. At its heart stood an elegant stone fountain, its gentle cascading water bringing a soothing melody and refreshing coolness to the air. Madam Lucia had a particular passion for orchids, and her exquisite collection drew admiring visitors from across the city who came specifically to stroll through this floral sanctuary.