A Gentle Ripple

I walked down the sunny avenue until I slipped past the wrought-iron gate of the botanical garden. Near the open reflecting pool, the wide sky mirrored perfectly across the calm, dark water. Resting on the warm flagstone curb, someone had dropped a small, empty brass eyelet from a shoe. I took a brief pause... steadying my balance near the edge. Leaning forward with both of my flipper sleeves, I nudged the tiny brass ring across the smooth slate. It slipped cleanly over the rim. Plip. It broke the glassy surface, sending concentric, golden circles shimmering outward toward a floating lily pad. I rested quietly beside the water, watching the peaceful rhythm fade.