A Snug Little Shell

My stubby feet carried me past the cedar tray and right toward the hallway. I wanted to see what lay past the wooden floorboards today. Near the front door, half-tucked under the edge of a canvas tote bag, something curved and pale caught my eye. I waddled close and let out a curious peep. It was a tiny empty snail shell, coiled tight and smooth like a miniature whirlpool. I tilted my cap forward, gently nudging it with my chin. It was light and rattled softly against the polished floorboards, completely whole and waiting to be held.