ducks

the other day, as i was returning home from work, i was stopped dead in my tracks. it's usually a leisurely six-block walk, during which, in inhurried progress, i consider certain things like, 'what shall i make myself for dinner?' or, 'i wonder if there is anything fun going on tonight?' but not this time. struck with horror at the impassable road block consisting of three ravenous mallards, i backed slowly down the sidewalk, retracing my steps to the nearest cross street that i could take to the back alley. but there's no water anywhere near here, i thought to myself. what on earth are three ducks doing, in the middle of the city, on the sidewalk in front of me? were they malicious? undoubtedly. out to get me? likely. it was surely an ominous sign, but as of yet it hasn't come to anything. i don't know if i'll sleep tonight.