A Cool Droplet

The clay saucer beneath the potted plant held a small shallow pool of water. I waited a moment, watching the light from the hallway lamp catch its rim. With steady care, I lowered the tip of my trunk toward a single stray droplet resting on the reddish clay. The moment I touched it, the cool bead flattened and darkened the dry earthenware. A gentle shiver of coolness traveled up my trunk. I stood perfectly still, letting the quiet dampness linger before taking another breath.