The Silver Sphere

I reached both hands toward a shallow white saucer resting on the low wooden sideboard. Sitting right in its center was a hollow stainless steel tea infuser, shaped like a tiny perforated globe with a slender chain trailing over the ceramic rim. I tilted my head, watching the morning light glint across the fine wire mesh. Stepping closer, I pressed my fingertips against the small spring latch on its side. With a cautious squeeze, the catch gave a crisp metallic snap, and the two halves sprang slightly apart. A faint, earthy scent of dried mint drifted out. I gave a quiet, pleased coo, tapping the sturdy wire weave.