the stars

I just found this in my documents folder, leftover from a writing prompt a few years ago.

The genie listened carefully as the little girl whispered into his ear.

I wish to speak to the stars, she said.

Anyone can speak to the stars, but they cannot answer, the genie told her.

Why not?

The genie considered. They are asleep. Like a stone or a stick.

She frowned at that. Then I wish the stars were awake.

The genie gave her a curt nod and vanished. The little girl inclined her head, looking almost at the sun, but not quite, as she had been taught.

Hello! said the little girl, beaming up at almost-the-sun-but-not-quite.

The sun answered. It sounded like the sky itself was being torn apart.