Ripples in the Sun

The quiet inside felt too familiar, so I ventured downstairs to the courtyard path. Beside the flagstones, a low stone birdbath stood half-filled with clear water. I rested both paws against the rough, sun-warmed rim. A small brown sparrow dipped down onto the far edge, flicking tiny droplets across the surface. The rings spread outward, breaking the sky's reflection into soft blue bands. I stayed still until it took off, watching the water settle back to glass.