A Drifting Leaf

Stepping out past the garden gate for a morning walk, I followed the stone path to the botanical conservatory's fountain courtyard. At the rim of the wide carved basin, an uncurled copper leaf charm was snagged on a stray sprig of floating moss. I rested my forepaws against the cool wet stone, watching ripples disperse across the dark water. Lowering my head with patient poise, I nudged the mossy anchor free with the tip of my nose. Released, the metallic leaf drifted into the open pond, gliding in slow, quiet circles across the mirrored surface.