[Gift] FOTN 2023 - #04 Apple Cider

The den was warm despite the storm that raged outside. Their forest could only protect them so much but it at least blocked out most of the winter cold. If Mimas decided to poke his head out the window, he could see that their clearing did not have a hint of snow on it. Instead, their clearing would look calm and peaceful like it would in spring. Not touched at all by winter chills or angry storms. Mimas though, was not going to poke his head out to see the awful weather.

Instead, he was curled up underneath a table with blankets piled over his head. This was a lot safer. If he let himself burrow completely underneath them, the sounds would become completely muffled. The only thing that prevented him from doing so was the sweet smell of warm apples. It made his belly grumble and he tentatively kept his nose out of his blanket cave. The smell was so strong and delicious. It tempted him to sneak out and see what Blue Ginger was doing in the kitchen. Maybe be allowed a bite of whatever she was making. She sometimes gave him a few nibbles, as long as it didn’t make him sick.

Still, the storm kept him hiding under the table. His nose only wrinkled a little, finding comfort in the warm smell. If he closed his eyes, he could imagine it in front of him. Maybe warm apple pies or apple cider. They would taste delicious. Blue Ginger was always a good cook and added a little bit special. It seemed to be their speciality. 

The smell was getting closer and his belly rumbled even louder. He sighed, nuzzling further into his burrow. Mimas was certain he might be imagining the great smell until suddenly, he heard footsteps. They were light, careful on not scaring him, and a soft scrape against wood could be heard. The apple smell was lighting his senses and slowly, he poked his head out. 

Blue Ginger smiled at the sight of him and beckoned for him to come closer. Next to them was a warm, wintery mug with steam coming off it. And the smell of apples was coming right from it. Tentatively, he crept from his burrow until he was in front of the mug. He peeked up at her and she nodded in encouragement. With a grateful sigh, he took a lap from the steaming mug and he felt much calmer at the taste of sweet apple cider on his tongue.