Breeze and Beat

I padded back inside from the lane and slipped across the quiet tatami toward the low sideboard. Resting flat near the edge was a round paper fan with a polished bamboo handle. Gripping the cane with both gloved hands, I gave it a brisk flick to cool down after my patrol. The sudden breeze fluttered my scarf, but on the return stroke, the broad paper circle tapped squarely against my round tummy with a hollow, rhythmic thwack. The gust rebounded straight up across my face, delightfully crisp and refreshing. Right on schedule, my stomach unleashed a deep, booming rumble that harmonized with the tap. I leaned back against the wood, thoroughly pleased.