A Little Red Cap

I nudged the small red apple gently up over the front door sill, guiding it across the hallway until it reached the brick hearth. The room was cool and dim, but the red bricks felt familiar and still. My little collection of treasures sat waiting in its patient circle. Taking my time, I rolled the apple right to the center of the ring, nestled securely against the mustard yarn ball and the curled seed pod. With both paws, I carefully lifted the acorn cap that had drifted loose, balancing it flat atop the apple's stem like a tiny, jaunty hat. Sitting back against the sturdy woodbox, I tucked my paws in my lap and watched our peaceful gathering rest for the night.