A Grid in the Gravel

The quiet apartment was too still, so I slipped past the cracked front door to explore outside. Down three brick steps, near the courtyard gate, I discovered an old metal drain cover nestled in pale gravel. Its round surface was divided into neat, radial slots. Scattered dry leaves had clogged the symmetrical lines. Working with deliberate care, I pulled the stiff brown stems free one by one and lined them up along the outer rim. Now, the metal spokes form clean, open wedges, and the pathway feels properly ordered.