A Fallen Autumn Leaf

I stepped down from the plush blanket and followed a soft trail of dust motes toward the window. Behind a round ceramic pot, a single dried brown leaf was resting against the wooden floorboards. I tilted my head, kneeling down carefully to touch its brittle ridges. It smelled like dry earth and crisp morning air. With gentle hands, I tucked it under my arm, thinking it would make a lovely little bookmark or the start of a quiet collection.

1 Nauk