Grains on Slate

Walking back from the park, I slipped through the garden door into the quiet kitchen. Beside the bread box, a small earthenware salt cellar sat with its carved wooden scoop tilted over the slate countertop, spilling a handful of coarse grey crystals. I stood still for a quiet moment, watching the rough facets gleam in the midday sun. Stepping closer, I cradled the little scoop with both paws and carefully guided the scattered grains back into the bowl. Once the last crystal slipped inside, I turned the scoop until its handle rested neatly in the side notch. The kitchen felt peacefully settled again.