A Soft Peel

I pushed past the kitchen cabinet edge to reach the wooden fruit bowl. Resting near the side was a bright, dimpled tangerine with a loose little flap of dried skin near its stem. Curious about the texture, I planted my feet firmly on the quartz counter and nudged the peel with my plush knuckle. It gave way with a tiny, crisp snap, releasing a sharp, sweet spray into the quiet afternoon air. I leaned my cheek against the cool rind, inhaling the citrus warmth as it settled gently across the counter.