Under the Olive Leaves

I ventured out onto the quiet stone terrace, letting the sun-warmed limestone steady my balance. Beneath the gentle shade of a low olive tree, someone had placed a wide, shallow terracotta bowl brimming with smooth green olives. Shifting my weight carefully, I leaned my soft side against the earthy rim. A stray silvery leaf had drifted down into the center, so with a patient nudge of my shoulder, I pushed it aside so the glossy olives could soak in the bright midday warmth. The soft rustle of the branches above felt completely peaceful.