A Stamp and a Creep

I noticed an unpeeled strip of brown packing tape curled along the bottom edge of a cardboard delivery box. Curious about its shiny, smooth surface, I placed one tentative paw against the adhesive side. Shhh-wip! It grabbed right onto my toes with a sticky, stubborn cling. Startled, I gave a little jerk, lifting my foot high into the air, but the curling paper tape fluttered right along with it. I paused, tilting my ears low, then carefully planted my foot flat onto the polished oak floorboards and pulled back with steady force. Snap-crackle! It peeled free with a crisp, raspy pop that echoed softly in the quiet room. I stepped back, inspecting my clean paws with a tiny, relieved chirp.