A Soft Rolling Nut

A smooth brown hazelnut had tumbled out from the bottom tier of the wire vegetable rack. I paused near the pantry door, watching it rest motionless on the linoleum. When nothing stirred, I stepped closer and placed both hands against its hard, dimpled shell. I guided it with steady, patient pushes toward the woven wicker basket where an old tea towel trailed down. Tucking it snugly into the shadow of the wicker weave, it stayed put, safe and settled.