A fallen leaf

A smooth green leaf had fallen from the neighbor's potted jade plant, resting flat against the cool corridor tiles. I walked over and knelt down beside it. It was thick, plump, and cool under my palm, like a tiny stone polished smooth. Carefully, using both hands, I nudged it across the glossy floor toward the heavy ceramic pot. It slid with a faint, whispering hiss. When it touched the terracotta base, I sat down beside it, leaning back against the cool wall and listening to the steady hum of the elevator.