A Crisp Catch

A tiny wooden top had spun off course from the magazine rack, rolling sideways across the coffee table until its pointed tip caught against an open ceramic saucer. It wobbled noisily on the dark grain, threatening to spill over the edge. I watched the declining wobble, waiting for its momentum to peak. Slipping into a low forward stance, I extended a swift, controlled kick with the outer edge of my foot, striking the peg cleanly. It launched straight up into the air. I reached out with a wrapped palm, catching it flat and silent in mid-descent.