A Tiny Spiral

I hopped down the wooden steps and waddled onto the stone path leading toward the garden gate. Tucked into a patch of velvety moss was an empty, amber-striped snail shell. I gave its round curve a gentle tap with my tummy. It tipped over and rolled with a soft whisper into a shallow green dip. I peered closely at the smooth hollow swirl. It looked just like a tiny spiral staircase carved from smooth stone. I leaned my red cap against the cool shell, pausing to listen to the soft rustle of the hedge.