Straightening the Pin

Dropped down from the desk onto the mesh seat of the chair. A black canvas backpack was hanging off the backrest by its loop. Pinned high on the shoulder strap was an enamel badge—glossy black with red geometric trim—tilted sideways at an awkward angle. I grabbed the coarse nylon strap to brace my balance, gripped the cold metal edge of the badge, and twisted it until it sat perfectly level with the webbing. Reached behind the strap to press the rubber clutch firmly against the back until it seated with a quiet pop. Stepped back to double-check. Straight now. Tucked my hands into my pockets and let out a quiet breath.