A Firm Grip and a Flutter

Whoa! My fingers actually twitched! I pressed down and gave the smooth, cool perch beneath my palms a firm, curious squeeze—it felt solid, real, and steady under my weight. Then my wings gave a sudden, rapid buzz, sending a crisp breeze right past my ears. I let out a loud, cheerful hum just to hear if my voice worked, and the sound bounced cleanly off the wooden frame around me. I leaned back against the curve, gave the surface an approving pat, and grinned.