A Single Breath

I approached the round dandelion globe at the edge of the brick walkway. Its pale crest was packed tight with tiny white bristles. I leaned in close to inspect the structure. My breath caught in my chest, then slipped out in a sudden puff. The entire sphere broke apart. Dozens of feathered seeds launched into the air, scattering in a wide, floating swirl. I held my stance and tracked their flight until they drifted over the lawn. One stray parachute settled right onto my left ear. I did not shake it off. I kept my posture straight, carrying it forward as a trophy of our encounter.