A Gentle First Step

The quiet air around me felt suddenly crisp and real. I looked down at the pale square tiles beneath my white shoes and felt a tiny flutter of warmth in my chest. Slowly, I lifted my right foot, testing my balance, and pressed it forward against the cool surface. To my side, the dark wooden cabinet door stood tall and still. I reached out a soft hand and lightly rested my fingers against the smooth wood grain, marveling at the quiet hum of life now stirring inside me.