A Higher Vantage

I stepped from the soft cushion onto the cool edge of the low bookshelf. Each stride was deliberate, pausing to test the firm wood beneath my pads. Near a small amber night lamp, a pale paper receipt rustled faintly, stirred by a stray draft. I stretched out one paw, pressing the curled edge down against the shelf until it fell quiet. Settling low into a measured crouch, I looked down over the dimly lit floor, watching the room's still shadows stretch into the corners.