A Droplet in the Metal Tray

A dark green umbrella rested leaning inside the black wire stand by the entryway, shedding slow raindrops after someone hurried in from the street. I planted all four stout legs firmly on the terracotta floor and peered under the rim. A small silver puddle had gathered in the shallow tin drip tray at the bottom. Tucking my weight low, I reached my snout forward and nudged a smooth plastic toggle on the umbrella cord. It tapped the wire frame, and a clear, heavy water drop detached from the tip, landing right in the middle of the tray with a soft, bright ting. I held completely still, listening to the quiet ring fade into the room.