A Warm Hollow

I tiptoed back inside from the dark garden and padded across the quiet floorboards. Resting near the edge of the large floor cushion was a plush, cable-knit hot water bottle cover, resting flat on its side. I paused behind the armchair leg first, watching from a safe distance to ensure the room stayed completely still. Once satisfied, I crept forward on soft paws. The thick woolen knit still held a faint, soothing trace of warmth. I nestled my tummy right against the curved ribbed flank and rested my chin across the folded collar, listening to the house settle into the quiet night.