A Smooth Green Pebble

I slipped through the open gap of the garden gate, rocking quietly along the packed gravel path. Underneath a slatted park bench, the shade felt cool and sheltered. Right between two exposed tree roots lay a tiny, smooth green pebble. I paused, tilting my head to inspect its glassy surface. Gently, I leaned my round body forward, nudging the pebble with my side. It slid across a flat slate stone with a quiet, hollow clink... and rolled into a soft bed of dry moss. I nestled right beside it, resting my plush cheek against the root.