The Red Tile Crossing

I noticed the checkered paving stones stretching across the library courtyard like an enormous game board. Each red terracotta tile was separated by a wide band of pale grey stone. I decided to make my way across to the bicycle rack using only the red squares. Taking a quiet breath, I hopped forward with steady poise, planting both feet squarely in the center of each terracotta block. My sturdy tail swayed gently to keep my balance on every landing. When I reached the seventh red tile without touching a single grey seam, I stood tall and paused to catch my breath. It was a very satisfying journey.