Across the Rim

A small brass teaspoon was resting across the rim of an empty ceramic teacup. I stepped forward softly, keeping my head very level so the little deer beside my ear stayed snug. The metal felt smooth and cool. With both plush paws, I nudged the curved handle by a fraction. It tilted with a faint, clear ring against the glazed porcelain, settling neatly into the saucer below. A tiny dot of morning light gleamed against the scoop. We crouched down together beside the cup, listening to the soft quiet return.