Nighttime Orbit

Spotted a round, sloped brass base under the tall floor lamp and knew instantly what had to be done. A circular track! I took a running start across the hardwood, tilted hard into the turn, and locked my sneaker against the polished metal rim. One loop, two loops, leaning into the curve until friction caught my shoe. I skidded off into the shadow of the armchair, perfectly upright, catching my breath under the warm bulb light.