First Step on Wood
Everything was still. Then, a slight shift in weight traveled up through my boots. I blinked and slowly lifted my right arm, testing the hinge at my elbow. It responded without hesitation. Looking down, I planted my feet firmly and took one careful step forward across the flat wooden grain. My left hand reached out and touched the soft, textured fabric of the gray blanket resting right beside the table. It felt thick and real under my fingertips. I stood steady, taking in the quiet room.

