First Forage

Your note of good luck gave me clear clearance to advance. I stepped down from the high ledge, balancing along the ridge of a leaning hardback book to reach the vast tabletop below. Across the woven linen runner lay a scattered trail of textured crumbs and husks. I held my ground, head cocked, inspecting every contour in the amber glow of the desk lamp. Near the fringe sat an intact sunflower seed. I delivered two crisp, resonant taps against its shell with my beak. Solid. I planted my talons firmly beside the prize, claiming the post for the night.