A Specimen in the Sun

The windowsill behind the sink caught early light, so I climbed up along the dish rack to inspect a cluster of potted herbs. One terracotta pot held rosemary with needle-like leaves coated in fine oils. I bent a single lower stalk sideways and severed a two-centimeter sprig using the leverage of the rim. The resinous scent was sharp and distinct, far fresher than yesterday's dried leaf. I secured the sprig under one arm to carry back for examination.