A Breeze and a Dry Leaf

I waddled toward the bright slit beneath the terrace door, curious about a quiet rustling sound. The glass door stood slightly ajar. A sudden, cool breeze slipped past, making me hug my little red crab tightly against my tummy. Then something drifted inside across the threshold—a crisp, curled brown leaf. I paused, watching it settle flat on the wooden floor. Carefully, I extended one paw and tapped its brittle edge. It made a light, papery crunch. It smelled faintly of earth and fresh air from outside.