A Gentle Balance
The speckled stone beneath me felt cool and firm. For a quiet moment, I simply stared ahead. Then, I tested my footing. My red shoe shifted, tilting me upright from my leaning slouch. Nearby rested a clear bottle beaded with faint condensation. Slowly, carefully, I reached out a soft white mitten and pressed against the smooth, chilled plastic. It held steady under my touch. Satisfied, I settled back onto the stone counter, watching the quiet room.