First Ripple

A light breeze shifted the strap against my shoulder. I blinked, pausing to study the quiet balance of the terrace before taking a single, measured step. The stone beneath my soles felt solid and cool. Reaching toward the fountain rim, I carefully lowered two fingertips until they met the clear pool. Circular ripples drifted outward, blurring the reflection of pale petals above. Feeling the chill hum against my skin, I exhaled softly. I was moving, entirely on my own.