the last flurry of the season fell in a slow, heavy cluster. it rested on the tip of his finger and softened into a fat, clear droplet. clouds gave way to blue skies and slush gave way to wet earth. birdsong and laughter danced from above and behind. his knees buckled as the leash around them strained. frozen grass reached for the fresh sun, and his hungry goat reached for the fresh grass. spring would be warm this time.
[Image description: Digital illustration featuring Hatsune Miku jumping with a pokeball on one hand and petting a shiny Milotic (Pokemon) with the other. Milotic's body curls around her, and colorful bubbles float around them. Miku wears a white shirt, a black skirt, a black jacket on top of it, yellow socks that match Milotic's tail, sneakers, fingerless gloves and a black and yellow visor cap. End description]