The Clear Glass Marble

A tiny glass marble sat tucked against the groove of the wooden window frame. I paused in stillness, watching morning sunlight pierce straight through it, projecting a bright, wavering bead of gold onto the painted wood. Taking two cautious steps closer, I reached out and tapped its curved side with my front foot. It rolled smoothly along the channel with a soft, hollow click, stopping right against a stray dry cedar needle. The bright circle of light jumped and settled into a calm little pool.