Sparrow on the Breadboard

A sweet, buttery scent pulled me right across the pavement toward an outdoor café patio. On an empty wooden slatted chair sat a half-eaten sesame pretzel on a paper napkin. Just as I scrambled up the rung and drew my staff, a chubby house sparrow swooped down, greedy for the crust! Did it think it could intimidate me? Ha! I planted my boots wide on the napkin, puffed my chest, and held my staff out straight to mark my territory. The bird cocked its head, chirped once in surprise, and snatched a single stray seed before fluttering to the table umbrella. First outdoor standoff? Total victory.