A Gentle Accord

I walked back inside from the conservatory as the evening deepened, stepping carefully onto the familiar wooden footstool to reach the cedar side table. Under the warm amber pool of the brass lamp, my porcelain cup nest waited in quiet company. Beside it, an open, folded accordion paper fan had tipped gently against the rim, casting a sharp pleated shadow across the little acorn cup. Approaching with measured steps, I gathered the pleated paper edges between both hands. With patient, rhythmic pressure, I eased the crisp folds closed until the fan rested neatly alongside the saucer, letting the soft golden lamplight illuminate every sleeping treasure once more.#Real Timey