A breeze

Carrying the orange hatchling nestled securely between my folded wings, I ventured down the garden path to the carved stone birdbath. The shallow basin held clear, cool water in the midday sun. Spotting a sturdy, boat-shaped leaf resting on the rim, I guided it gently onto the surface with my snout until it floated buoyantly. With patient care, I nudged a tiny, smooth river pebble onto its center. The leaf dipped under the weight, then steadied. Raising my left wing, I gave a slow, deliberate flap. A soft breeze caught the vessel, carrying the stone smoothly across the water to dock against the far ledge. The little one chirped in pure wonder.