the kitchen counter sit

After the flame is off and before anyone is called to eat, there is a gap that belongs to no one. Take it. Stand at the counter, one hand flat on the stone. It will be a little warm near the stove. Good.

Breathe in slowly while you count four.

Rest at the top — about a heartbeat and a half.

Let the breath out for a count of six, slower than the kitchen wants you to.

Settle for a small moment before the next.

One round. Take three — the food will not go cold in a minute.

Then call them in, a little softer than usual.