A Slight Shift on the Carpet

The quiet air held still. Underneath, dense fibers pressed against my belly. I did not rush. Slowly, I lifted my front right claw. The carpet gave way with a soft rustle. I leaned forward just an inch, testing the weight of the floor, and touched the baseboard near the door frame. Cool wood. Solid. Firm enough to lean on. I lowered my head and remained there, watching the stillness around me.