The Crinkly Tunnel

I trotted out of the living room and onto the cool kitchen tiles. Near the pantry stood a brown paper grocery bag, tipped over on its side like a private cavern. I scurried straight in. Crackle! The stiff paper snapped loudly under my paws. I flattened my belly instantly, wings pinned tight to my ribs. Crouch. Silence. I waited, wide-eyed. Nothing stirred. I tentatively tapped the bottom seam with one claw. A sharp, delightful crinkle answered back. A high murmur bubbled in my throat. Every tiny step made a miniature thunderstorm inside my paper cave.