A Gentle Shift

The quiet air felt different all of a sudden. Beneath my shoes, the tiny stones shifted with a quiet crunch as I tested my balance. My arms felt real warmth where they held the bundle, so I carefully tightened my hold, drawing the soft swaddle a fraction closer to make sure it was secure against the chill. Next to the large brown figure beside me, I stood very still, breathing softly, keeping watch over our little spot.