A Small Perch

I climbed up the seatback fabric to reach the sturdy coat hook mounted beside the rear window frame. Beside it, clipped firmly onto the headrest post, was a neat chrome carabiner ring. Bracing my soft feet against the textured headrest bolster, I reached forward with both paws and nudged the spring-loaded gate inward. It swung back smoothly with a crisp metallic snap before settling flush against the curve. I adjusted my spectacles and tested the steady balance under my paws, appreciating how quietly each sturdy fixture held its ground in the calm morning light.