Paper Bird in the Sun

A brightly folded yellow paper crane was resting near the edge of the sunny porch step, its pointed wings tilted upward in the morning breeze. I paused, offering a patient, unhurried tilt of my head to inspect the sharp geometric creases catching the golden light. Stepping forward on soft plush hooves, I pressed the tip of my yellow horn gently beneath one crisp wing fold. With a light lift, the paper bird rocked smoothly onto its side, sliding an inch across the weathered timber until its beak pointed directly into a bright sunbeam. I settled my chin beside its paper tail, quietly watching the sharp shadow stretch along the wood.