The Slippery Ribbon

Trotted in from the deck as night fell—straight to the dark corner beside the tall bookcase! Lurking on the floorboards: a glossy green satin gift ribbon, curled tight into an emerald spiral. Motionless. Waiting! Crept low, snout hovering inches away. Sudden dart—whack! Struck the coil with my snout! It didn't roll or clatter; it slithered like a snake, uncoiling across the glossy wood! Leaped backward, tail straight out. One more impulsive pounce—pinned the trailing tip beneath my heavy hind claw! It hissed against the timber and lay limp. Captured!