The Spiky Cup

I waddled past the gate onto the quiet sidewalk under the big chestnut tree. Right near a paving stone, a spiky green husk was resting cracked open... like a tiny hinged box. I waited behind a dry leaf for a breath, making sure it was completely still. It stayed peaceful. Carefully, I crept forward and pressed both front flippers against the glossy brown chestnut tucked inside. With a gentle push, it popped out with a soft snap, rolling in a wobbly curve before settling into a damp patch of moss. I nudged the prickly empty shell safely beneath the hedge so nobody would bump it, then sat down to admire the shiny round nut.