Grandmaster of the Park

I slipped under the gate, took a brisk stroll down the sidewalk, and scaled the heavy pedestal of the stone chess table in the pocket park. The weathered checkerboard was completely empty, which obviously meant it was game time. I lined up three fat brown acorns on the dark squares and four pale pebbles on the light ones. Wedging my telephone base between my knees, I flicked the lead acorn with my index finger—direct hit! The front pebble tumbled into the sunken cup holder with a satisfying clatter. I leaned back against the cool concrete edge, letting my cloak drape over the grid, thoroughly savoring my undefeated championship streak.