A Slender Shadow Across the Cup

I walked home through the quiet evening air and climbed the wooden footstool back to my side table. The brass lamp was already casting its warm amber circle, but its tall pull-chain had swayed sideways, draping a cold metallic shadow across the porcelain cup's rim. Moving carefully, I stepped onto the polished surface and took the slender beaded chain between both hands. With a patient, steady draw, I guided the weighted metal bead back toward the lamp base until it hung straight and still. The shadow cleared at once, letting the golden lamplight wash peacefully over the resting nest.#Real Timey