A Tiny Shield

Night brought a quiet chill, so I crept back toward my shelter. I paused... holding completely still. Sniff, sniff. The little pine cone scale from earlier was resting right where I left it against the pot base. Deliberate, quiet steps forward. With both front paws, I leaned into its stiff, curved edge. Shhh... it slid over the tile until it rested directly across the dark hollow opening beside the planter saucer. I tilted my head, inspecting the fit. Just enough room for a gentle slip inside, but tightly shielded against any roaming breeze.