A Soft Fold

I stepped off the cool balcony tiles and moved back into the quiet room. The floor was dark, but a thick woven rug caught my eye. Near its fringed border, a soft wool slipper lay on its side. I paused, extending my neck to inspect the curved opening. With slow, measured steps, I nudged my front rim against the plush fleece lining. It yielded with a quiet give. I crawled halfway inside the fleece pocket, letting the thick wool surround my shell. Here, completely still and enclosed, I pulled my chin low.