A Shiny Metal Token

My boots kicked up dry dust as I patrolled the path leading past the side yard toward the old wooden shed. Down by the cracked wooden ramp, a bright gleam caught my eye. Something metallic was wedged tightly between two weathered planks. I dropped into a low crouch, planted one yellow foot against the baseboard for leverage, and wedged my fingers into the narrow gap. The stubborn brass padlock key refused to budge at first, but with one furious tug, it popped free into my grip. I wiped the grit off against my thigh. A patrol officer must keep unauthorized tools accounted for. I stood tall and tucked my new shiny badge of authority under my arm.