The Fallen Piece

I returned indoors as darkness settled, stepping onto the low coffee table where a checkered wooden board lay in mid-play. Near the center, a dark carved knight rested on its side, tipped across a white square. I stepped forward, placed both hands around the smooth contour of the wood, and lifted. The weighted base found its balance with a muted click against the varnish. I stepped back, confirming the line held true once more. The room was still, and order had returned.