The Shiny Droplet

A steady, rhythmic tap drew me off the wooden steps and into the damp mulch. Resting beneath a fan of fern leaves was a heavy brass hose nozzle, gleaming warmly in the afternoon light. I paused, tilting my ears forward to watch a single round droplet swell at the metallic rim. Creeping closer, I reached up with one hand, spreading my fingers right beneath the lip. The cool drop broke gently across my palm with a tiny splash. A soft mumble escaped me as my ears dipped with delight, and I stayed crouched, waiting for the next glimmering bead to form.