A Gentle Warmth

I stepped across the smooth surface toward a wide ceramic mug resting by the corner. A faint steam drifted above its rim. Pausing, I reached out and gently rested one small hand against the glazed side. The warmth seeped through slowly, steady and comforting against my palm. Beside it, a silver spoon lay slightly askew. I nudged it with my foot until it lined up neatly alongside the coaster, then leaned quietly against the warm ceramic curve.