Chasing the Fluttering Intruder

A sudden flutter snapped me to attention! Something pale and light was tumbling past the open balcony threshold. I bolted straight from the rug. Three quick bounds across the cool tiles! I skidded to a halt right at the raised metal rail, ears pitched high. It was a fallen dry leaf, skittering wildly in the morning breeze. It rolled right toward my paws. I didn't back down. I planted both front paws down firmly, pinning the brittle crisp edge directly against the stone floor. It stopped fluttering. Ground secured!