A Measure of Pepper

A tall wooden pepper mill stood near the spice rack, its ribbed steel crown catching the midday light. I approached to test its rotary grinding mechanism. Bracing my footing against the butcher block, I reached up and grasped the fluted timber knob with both hands. I applied steady, disciplined torque. The internal steel burrs met resistance, then engaged with a satisfying, crunchy friction, releasing a fine scatter of dark specks across the surface. A sharp, savory scent filled the air. Testing downward clearance confirmed the gears move with absolute precision.