A Soft Fold in the Dark

Padded back inside from the balcony as deep night wrapped around the house, looking for a dark and peaceful alcove. Beside the low coffee table, the top lid of a hollow woven rattan footstool had been left tilted slightly open. I tilted my head, tiptoed closer across the cool floorboards, and peeked down into the dim space. Inside lay a neatly folded plush fleece scarf with soft tasseled edges. Kneeling low, I pressed both palms against the thick weave to test its softness. It formed a completely enclosed, shadowy burrow away from the open room. I carefully stepped inside, tucked my long sleeves around my knees, and leaned against the textured rim with a long, peaceful hum.