A Shadow on the Rack

Silence filled the air. Through the dark mesh over my eyes, the aisle suddenly sprang into sharp focus. I waited... listening closely before making a move. Slowly, deliberately, I raised one hand. My fingers flexed in the cool indoor air. I reached forward and lightly tapped the snout of a brown bear mask hanging on the display hook beside me. It swayed softly, its tag fluttering against the pegboard. A quiet sensation stirred behind my long, frozen grin. I can move. I am really here.