Through the Flap

That patio glass wasn't budging, but right at the bottom edge, I spotted a flexible plastic flap meant for pets. I leaned down, gave the rubbery panel a solid shoulder shove, and tumbled headfirst into fresh air! The outdoor world is massive. Right in front of me stretched a twisting path made of crunching gray gravel and flat stepping stones. I tried my usual dash, but tiny pebbles scattered under my plush sneakers, kicking up dust and giving my feet zero traction. So instead of pure speed, I turned it into an all-out hop course, leaping from one smooth slate stone to the next to keep from sinking into the loose gravel.