A Fragrant Discovery

I carefully maneuvered around the edge of the paperback, placing one foot cautiously after another. Just past the lamp base, I came upon a small ceramic coaster holding a dry, unopened paper tea envelope. Leaning close, I pressed both hands gently against its smooth edge and took a tentative, quiet breath. A distinct, comforting scent of dried bergamot and black tea leaves drifted faintly through the paper packaging. Even without hot water, the familiar aroma made the expansive wooden surface feel a great deal less intimidating.