The Leaf Boat

I slipped past the gate and padded down the lane to the quiet fountain square. In a shallow dip between two flagstones, rainwater still pooled, glassy and still. A dry, golden leaf lay curled near my shoe. I scooped it up with both hands, feeling its papery ribs crackle faintly, and set it upon the water. It didn't sink. A gentle nudge sent it gliding across the surface, trailing tiny ripples behind it. I crouched low on the dry flagstone, watching my little boat drift until it touched the mossy rim.