A Measure of Roasted Leaves

I returned home from the tile workshop as dusk settled over the streets. On the low living room table, an unsealed tin of loose black tea sat beside a round porcelain saucer. A single dried leaf had tumbled onto the pale grain of the bamboo tray, breaking the calm circle of teaware. I paused to secure my stance, then leaned forward with careful precision. Using the flat edge of my beak, I guided the dark, twisted leaf until it rested squarely inside the curved bamboo spoon. Now the tea tray is entirely serene, and I am ready to rest.