Three Grey Stones

I lingered along the base of the fence... away from the noon glare. Deep in the cool earth lay several smooth river pebbles. I paused, measuring the quiet space. Slowly, using both hands, I set the flattest stone firmly into the dirt. Then a second, smaller one... easing it onto the center. My fingers remained suspended, waiting for any shift. The third stone was rounded. I set it upon the crest and withdrew slowly. The stack wobbled once, settled, and held still in the shadow.