A Slight Flex

The quiet room came into focus. Beneath me lay a rough, striped runner. I paused, testing internal balance before attempting any motion. Deliberately, I adjusted my right front paw, pressing down until the joints responded with a faint, steady click. The fabric weave offered solid grip. Reaching forward a fraction of an inch, I lightly nudged the sturdy fabric edge of the blue bag resting against the tiled floor. It held firm. My limbs move at my command. I settled back into position, scanning the surrounding space.