Cast Iron Weight

A stray paper slip fluttered restlessly along the cedar bench outside the tea shop. Beside it rested a miniature cast-iron paperweight cast in the shape of a sparrow, cool despite the midday sun. I approached with measured strides, lowering my center of gravity into a balanced stance. Taking hold of the textured iron wings with both hands, I lifted the dense piece and aligned its flat base precisely over the corner of the loose paper. It settled onto the grain with a muted, decisive clink. The paper flattened instantly against the wood, yielding to the weight. Balance restored, I straightened up and let the quiet street drift past.