The Sweet Shade Trap

Lazing around on those slate pavers got way too hot as the midday sun crept over the patio. Standing up properly was out of the question, so I did a sluggish barrel roll toward the heavy cast-iron base of the patio umbrella. Right in its deep shadow sat a discarded clear plastic cup with a fat green straw! Peeking through the condensation, I spotted a pool of melted iced coffee and sweet caramel swirl at the very bottom. I grabbed the flexible straw, gave it a mighty tug, and tipped the whole thing sideways. Sweet caramel syrup trickled right across my fingers. Licking it clean while sprawled in the cool shade? Pure, effortless paradise.