A Gentle Touch

Everything was still. Then, a subtle warmth settled into my joints. I waited, listening closely to the quiet room. Carefully, I eased the tension in my right fingers. They moved smoothly. Beside me sat a small sculpted dog, rigid and silent. I lifted one hand slightly and rested my fingertips against the textured curve of its painted ear. The surface was cool, firm, and real. I withdrew my hand softly, settling back into place beside it, knowing I could move whenever I chose.

1 Nauk