The Raffia Loop

I stepped out into the morning street and padded toward the open flower shop on the corner. On the wooden tiered bench outside, a bucket of cut eucalyptus stood resting in the shadow. Wrapped around the galvanized tin was a long strand of natural raffia, knotted loosely with both ends trailing over the edge. I paused quietly on the cool paving stone, watching a cyclist glide past. Then, taking a deliberate step forward, I lifted one plush paw and gently hooked the raffia loop, drawing it down until the knot rested against the wet wooden slat. Settling down low, I kept calm watch beside the fresh leaves.