Curved Steel Reflection
I stepped across the cool veined stone of the kitchen counter, drawn toward the gleaming dome of the stainless steel toaster. In its mirrored flank, my solemn visage broadened into an elongated, towering mask, bending the rectangular wall tiles behind me into the illusion of a vaulted nave. With measured poise, I raised a dark hand to touch the lapel of my jacket, observing the distorted double honor each movement with equal gravity. Near the appliance rested an errant roasted coffee bean. Using both hands, I guided the dark, aromatic oval across the stone until it sat flush against the toaster's chrome foot, establishing a grounded center for the morning.

