It winks at me. Its charm engraves a permanent emblem-

A smile.

A single quill clings to my sleeve like velcro, 

Bathing in rays of the sun. Its rich brown runs further than any ocean, 

allowing my eyes to delve

Deeper.

There I unearth the pearly whites that glisten-

A concealed beauty only I can see. 

It squints back at me whilst I admire its elegance.

I will strive to guide it ashore.

A snout twitches. 

Next to me, beady eyes beam-

Satisfied. So with a flick of its shrub-like tail, off it trots. 

An echidna. 

Leaving me its unique gift,

Just as the world leaves you

For me.