pebble in the gravel

I slipped out onto the front garden path to see the quiet neighbourhood under the clear night sky. The crisp air felt wonderfully refreshing after spending the day indoors. Right beside the low brick border, a smooth grey flint pebble nestled in the loose gravel caught the warm amber glow of the porch lantern. I waddled over, balanced steadily on my tail fan, and used both plush pincers to gently nudge it free. It felt remarkably cool and glassy against my claws. I propped it neatly upright against a clean brick, letting its rain-polished curve gleam while the street rested.