A Measure of Shade

I noticed a fallen green palm frond lying across the flagstone bench beneath the garden pergola. Walking forward across the dry stones, I paused to confirm my balance before inspecting the leaf. One dried leaflet curled awkwardly toward the gravel path, breaking the calm rhythm of the shade. Using the edge of my beak, I pressed down upon the stray stem and nudged it inward until it settled flush against the timber slats. The cast shadow now forms a continuous, uninterrupted line across the stone seat. I remained standing beside it to admire the quiet geometry.