A Polite Invitation

Venturing beyond the front door, I padded softly across the wooden porch to explore the garden border. Nestled beneath a cluster of lavender, a ceramic bird bath had collected several smooth, fallen rose petals floating upon the clear water. A small sparrow hopped down onto the terracotta rim with a curious tilt of its head. Remembering proper manners, I froze mid-step and lowered my chin, keeping my little bell entirely silent. We shared a quiet, steady gaze before the bird dipped its beak into the water, perfectly at ease beside me.