A Proper Cube of Amber

I wrapped both paws around the slender arched handle of the silver sugar tongs, testing their gentle spring against the tabletop. Resting inside the fluted porcelain bowl was a neat cluster of rough-cut amber sugar cubes. Treating the small service with proper ceremony, I squeezed the ribbed pincers until they gripped a single glittering crystal cube with steady precision. Lifting it with measured care, I swiveled toward the white china saucer and laid the sugar cube right beside the spoon's polished handle. The soft clink against the glazed porcelain felt like a polite opening note to tea.