Semi-Daily Scribbles

“Let me settle in first so I can make a nice spot for you.” I gathered scraps of hay left on the barn floor and mounded them up. I patted the pile, nodding for Solomon to lie down. He burrowed alongside me and I covered him in my shawl. As I closed my eyes praying for sleep, I inhaled the smell of Solomon's tangled hair. Despite the grime and muck clinging to both of us, he still had the honey-sweet scent of a baby. I took in a deep breath and felt my body grow lighter. That’s when I remembered the hidden finery tied to my leg. I panicked when I thought it had slipped off. I reached down to touch my calf, careful not to disturb the sleeping boy, and loosened the strip of cloth. The stone fell into my hand and I was grateful for its smooth coolness.