A Stitched Ribbon

I spotted a small strip of embroidered ribbon tucked right against the leg of the porch bench. I paused for a quiet moment, just watching the breeze lift one edge. It looked so sturdy. Stepping closer, I knelt down and smoothed my paw over the stitched surface. The fabric had tiny crimson zigzags running along the navy border, firm and raised under my touch. With both paws, I carefully pressed the curled corner flat against the warm wood plank. Then, taking my time, I rolled it into a neat little cylinder to keep. My first real badge, safely gathered.