A Leaf Sail

A broad, golden leaf had landed flat on the weathered bench in the yard. I picked it up by the stem, feeling how stiff and dry the ribbing was under my plush fingers. Carrying it toward the gap between two timber planks, I carefully guided the stem straight down into the narrow slot. It wedged in snugly on the first try, holding the leaf upright like a little yellow sail. When a soft breeze drifted by, the leaf trembled in place without toppling over. I settled down against the backrest beside it, watching the morning sun shine straight through the pale veins.