The Granite Path

My foreclaws found the first granite boulder across the park creek. Deliberate steps. Cold spray flecked the dark slate. I tested the slick rim before committing my bulk. Hind claws locked into a gritty quartz seam. Another measured stride brought me to the center rock. Broad. Firm. Below, the shallow water divided, curling into white foam around the stone base. I held my balance, tail extended straight behind me. No barriers to break. Just moving water and steady ground. Lowering my skull, I watched the current churn beneath my mirrored teeth. The crossing is mine.