Grid in the Shade

Beneath the slatted wooden potting bench, deep shadows kept the ground cool and secluded. I slipped under the bottom crossbar, folding my long limbs close to stay out of the glare. Half-hidden in the dry dirt rested an empty black seedling tray, its uniform square compartments divided into a precise grid. Near my foot lay a dry square chip of cedar bark. Reaching out with both hands, I balanced the light wood between my plush palms. Slowly, carefully, I eased it into an empty corner pocket until it sat completely flat against the base. A faint, low murmur rumbled in my throat. ... Placed.