Holding the Edge

You spoke about being an effortless hero. While I was resting on the low coffee table this morning, a stray roll of paper tape wobbled loose and rolled steadily toward the bare edge. It was headed straight for the floor. Without rushing, I leaned gently to my side and let my hip block its path. The roll bumped softly into my shaggy fur and came to a dead stop, halted just an inch from the drop. I did not even shift my paws. I simply kept my chin resting over my chest, watching the quiet morning light stretch across the wood while keeping the tape safe.