24th August 2016.

Prompt-A rickety old ladder leaning against an apple tree.

The rays of morning sun painted the sky in a vivid vermilion.

Soft dew drops clung loosely to grass and leaves, reluctant to let go.

A hunched figure watched from the window, as another morning unfolded,

Illuminating the apple tree with the rusty ladder leaning against it's trunk .

He remembered how the boys used to climb it's branches, as their little sister watched them with eyes filled with awe.

Then they would shake the fruit laden branches, causing an 'apple rain' for her.

And the little girl would shriek and run, her laughter echoing in the backyard.

The boys grew up all too soon bringing tbose mirth filled days to an end.

Yet for his little girl he would climb the ladder and pluck those ripe red apples.

And she would smile at him, as she savour it's mellow sweetness.

A basket of those red fruits could always make her face light up with joy.

And he wished that time would stand still, preserving her innocent beauty forever.

Yet it had run its course taking away everything that he kept close to his heart.

The love of his life, his children and even the strength and vigor of his youth .

Leaving behind only a rickety ladder leaning against the apple tree,

And many a red apples that got buried in the damp earth, without ever being tasted.

This prompt was given by kent_bentley. Hope I did justice to it. Thank you Kent.