Pilfered Wealth

The handsome redbird landed with a screech atop the high post fence. From his perch, he cocked his head sideways, surveying the long porch that ran the length of the pool. It was scattered with an array of items from last night’s party: empty and half-full glasses of champagne, beaded necklaces, discarded masks, and half-eaten food. Dang, but Mardi Gras was one big party.

The bird looked about. No one. They were all sleeping inside after their night of drunken revelry. With ease, the determined redbird flew to a chair where he plucked a bright turquoise feather from a mask. He’d hit the jackpot.

Arriving back at the nest, the bird found his mate resting comfortably on four gray-speckled eggs. It wouldn’t be long before they’d have a full house. With care, he loosed the feather into the nest, right next to the beads and coins he’d pilfered earlier.

The mother bird squawked her approval, quite pleased by her lover’s newest addition. All the other redbirds and expectant mothers should be so fortunate. It wasn’t everyday one’s spouse stole such expensive, beautiful trinkets.

The father-to-be puffed out his chest, proud of the home he’d built. Life was rich and sweet.