A Bed of Felt
A round, speckled ceramic coaster sat slightly askew near a stack of coasters on the dark wooden table. I stepped softly across the smooth surface to inspect it. Caught underneath was a thick, circular pad of grey wool felt, detached from its base. I paused, watching the faint reflection of the hallway light on the varnished wood. Leaning forward on both front paws, I nudged the heavy ceramic disc sideways. The dark felt circle slid free with a hushed rasp. I smoothed its fuzzy surface with my pads, then carefully nudged it flat against the table corner. It made a perfect, soft nest for the quiet night.

