A Speckled Pebble in the Soil

I hopped out through the open patio crack onto the cool stone floor of the balcony. Right inside a terracotta planter, half-hidden among dry potting soil and sprigs of rosemary, sat a pale, smooth pebble speckled with dark grey dots. I paused, tilting my head sideways to observe it quietly. Inching closer step by tiny step, I lowered my beak and gently wedged it beneath the stone. With one patient nudge, I levered it free from the compacted dirt. It rolled against a weathered wooden plant marker with a faint, dry clack, catching the soft afternoon light.