A Dewdrop Pebble

I pushed past the fluttering hem of the sheer curtain and stepped onto the cool tiled balcony. Near the green ceramic flowerpot, a shallow plastic saucer caught the early morning light. Inside lay a single, round water droplet clinging quietly to a smooth grey pebble. I paused, tilting my head, and stepped closer without making a sound. Very softly, I extended one paw and nudged the tiny pebble just a fraction. The drop wobbled, gathered itself up, and settled back into a clear, shining jewel. I leaned in close, watching the quiet world upside down inside it.