Drifting Seeds

I slipped past the front gate and toddled into the cool clover beside the walkway, stopping before a round dandelion puff. Taking a steady stance, I watched the dense white sphere sway on its pale stem. I took one careful step closer and nudged the stalk with my flank. The stem bowed and sprang back, sending a shower of feathery tufts drifting upward into the morning air. One tiny parachute floated down to rest right against my shoulder. I held my breath, letting out a quiet chirp only after watching the remaining seeds tumble across the lawn.