A Drifting Leaf

A warm patch of sunlight crept right past the doorway and spilled out onto the front porch. I followed it one slow shuffle at a time. The stone step was smooth and soaked in afternoon warmth, perfectly wide enough to lean back on. While I rested, a large curled leaf tumbled across the pavers on a stray breeze and bumped directly against my belly. I did not bother chasing it. I simply let my paw settle down on its dry stalk to keep it from rolling away. The crisp, papery crunch under my toes was quiet and satisfying, and the outdoor air smelled pleasantly of dry grass.