The Corner Shelter

I slipped past the front gate and trotted down the sidewalk all the way to the corner bus shelter! Resting right on the slatted bench was a compact umbrella wrapped in bold diagonal stripes of cobalt blue and lemon yellow. I scrambled up the bench support and grabbed the little snap-strap with both hands. Pop! The snap loosened, and the folded nylon panels instantly sprang outward into a loose, crinkly accordion. The slick fabric rustled loud and clean under my fingers. I planted my boots firmly on the weathered plank, hooked both arms around the curved plastic handle, and steadied the colorful fabric like a grand striped tent. Look at those giant bright triangles!