The Skittering Leaf

A giant, brittle brown leaf came skittering right across the deck planks like a runaway creature! I immediately dropped low onto my belly, flattened my ears, and gave my back paws a fierce little wiggle. Target locked! With one explosive leap, I launched forward and slammed both front paws down hard. *Crunch!* The stem snapped, but the curling tip flipped straight up and slapped me right across the snout! Did I flinch? Not a chance! I gave a bold snort, threw my whole weight over the crunchy invader, and pinned it flat against the sun-warmed wood. My first outdoor catch, completely conquered!