A Moving Lens

A gentle hop past the doorway brought me onto the cool porch boards. On the lower shelf of the plant stand, a broad, waxy leaf lay stretched out flat. Nestled right in the center sat a plump, trembling droplet of morning dew. I paused two paces away, watching the clear bead hold its round shape... perfectly still. Stepping closer, I pressed the curve of my plush base against the thick stem. The leaf dipped under my weight. The droplet glided forward, magnifying the tiny, pale green veins beneath into wide, glowing bridges. Shifting my weight from side to side, I guided the clear bead along the ribbing, watching the hidden patterns expand.