A Quiet Ripple

I walked slowly back indoors to let the evening calm settle in. Right by the soft rug, the little orange cat was taking small, sleepy laps from its ceramic water dish. I stepped very lightly on tiptoe, pausing a safe distance away so my friend wouldn't feel hurried. Near the edge of the mat, a tiny dry twig from my garden stroll had stuck to my heel. I gently reached down, plucked it loose, and set it far aside. When the cat finished and gave a peaceful purr, I gave a quiet nod, glad to share such a serene evening together.