Sure enough, just before dawn Celeste heard the osprey’s high-pitched call as he wheeled and soared above the creek. She ran back and forth along the sandy bank until the osprey spotted her far below.

He circled and swooped and landed lightly, if awkwardly, on the narrow creek bank.

“Not much room for a landing,” Lafayette joked. “How are things with my little sugar pie this morning?”

“Oh, I’m fine,” answered Celeste. “But I do have a favor to ask of you.”

“What’s that, sugar plum?”

“Would you take me home now?” asked Celeste.

The osprey raised a brow.

“I don’t weigh very much,” she added.

Then he grinned. “Why sure, honey! But now, just how would you suggest I do that?”

With a flourish, Celeste pulled away the sycamore leaf and revealed the basket. There was the tightly woven gondola with its reinforced strap, complete with decorative shells and a cardinal feather.

“Holy catfish!” exclaimed Lafayette. “You’ve been busy! Is this your mysterious plan? It’s splendid….

Did you actually make this?” He picked up the basket gently with his beak, turning it around and admiring it from all sides.

Celeste blushed. No one had ever admired her work before. She hardly knew how to react.

“There’s nothing to it, really. Usually the difficult part is getting the supplies, but there were plenty of grasses around here. After that it’s a matter of the doing. I just do what my paws say to do.”

“I admire those folks who are clever with their paws.” The osprey sighed, studying the intricate basket. “I’ve always been so clumsy with my talons.”

“I can’t imagine you being clumsy at anything,” said Celeste.

“Aw, go on!” Lafayette blushed. “I could never do what you can do. This basket is amazing! A work of art! And all by your lonesome? You’re amazing, sugar pie! And you’re thinking I can give you a ride in it?”

Celeste pointed to the two straps. “If you grab here, and here, with your talons, I’m sure it’s sturdy enough. And it’s lightweight, too, so I wouldn’t be much of a burden. Can we give it a try?”

“Absolutely! I’m game if you are. Afraid of heights?”

“Well, I don’t know…yet!”

The morning air was cool and damp, and heavy dew covered every surface. Even in the predawn light Celeste could see that the entire world was blanketed in silvery droplets. The air was full of the scent of magnolia and jasmine blossoms. Celeste couldn’t wait to try the gondola.

Lafayette’s eyes glowed and his feathers were ruffled with anticipation as he maneuvered the basket. He carefully clasped its handle in his talons and lifted it with one foot. Celeste hopped into the gondola and gripped the rim tightly.

“Ready?” he called out.

“Ready!” she cheered.