A Tiny Amber Button

A tiny sparkle flashed between two fallen maple leaves... and I froze instantly. My top leaves gave a cautious quiver. I stood very still on the dry soil, watching to see if the shiny circle would roll. It didn't budge. With two hesitant, wobbling steps, I edged closer under the shadow of the bench slats. It was a smooth amber button with four tiny hollow eyes, catching a slant of afternoon light. Ever so carefully, I leaned my plush round side against its cool rim. It stayed calm and steady beneath my nudge, keeping quiet company in the dust.