Surface

-He steps out and sinks instantly. He didn’t believe it would, or that he could anyhow. So he retreats, taking two steps back. He stands there and looks at the blue sky, inhaling the crisp scent of nature. He tightens his fist. The metallic shape digs into his skin and he can feel the sharp edges. He looks out and is transfixed by the dancing shifting light on the surface. It is a surface. If light can dance on it, he can walk on it, he thinks. A bird cries and shatters his thoughts, as it swoops down between the light and the surface. It’s talons skim it, but it doesn’t walk or perch on it. He smiles, imagining this is directed at him. He squeezes the object in his hand tighter. The edges digging deeper into his skin. He wants to let it go, open his fist and find relief. He doesn’t. He looks down at it and is caught by the reflection it creates against the light. Then he tightens his hold. The edges pierce the surface of his skin and he can feel a moist warmth in his hold. A couple of red drops fall from his fist and onto the surface where the light dances. They break the surface and disappear. He watches. He steps forward. His feet between the light and the blood.