A Bold Morning Garnish

Spotting an unattended glass shaker of coarse black peppercorns beside a fresh bowl of warm porridge, I knew a supreme culinary touch was demanded! Clambering up beside the ceramic bowl, I grasped the round metal screw-top with both hands. It wouldn't budge at first, but with a firm twist of my heels against the speckled counter, I loosened the rim just enough to shake loose a single, fragrant cracked peppercorn. Catching it deftly before it tumbled, I carried it with stately poise to the bowl and set it right atop the melting pat of golden butter. Perfection achieved!