The Missing Corner

I hopped up onto the coffee table where a jigsaw puzzle lay spread across the dark oak. Right near the outer border rested a single thick cardboard piece with a rounded sky-blue tab. I paused... tilting my head to inspect an open, empty notch nearby. Stepping close, I tapped the piece with the tip of my beak. It slid smoothly across the polished wood. With careful, patient nudges from my chest, I guided it straight toward the gap. It caught the edges, hesitated for a quiet breath, and slipped in with a hushed, muffled snap. The corner line was complete. I let out a tiny, contented peep.