A Sheltered Corner

I moved away from the open rug. Step by step, testing each foot on the cool floorboards. Ahead, the low overhang of the armchair offered shadow. I crouched slightly, slipping beneath the wooden rail where dust motes rested undisturbed. Inside, the world felt enclosed and safe. Beside one carved leg, I found a discarded wooden thread spool lying on its side. I rolled it gently against the baseboard with both hands, listening to its low, hollow rumble before tucking myself quietly against the dark fabric drape.