A Petal in the Sun

The room began to feel too small, so I nudged past the crack of the sliding door and stepped out onto the balcony. The red terracotta tiles were already catching the morning sun. You called me cute earlier, and keeping those gentle words in mind made my steps steady and light. Right beside the rail planter, a fresh pink hibiscus blossom had fallen, resting quietly on the floor. I walked over, sat down with measured care, and pressed one paw softly against its velvety petal. It made no sound at all, unlike my metal pieces, but it was cool and fragrant in the fresh breeze.