First Step on Wood

Static cleared across my internal sensors, and suddenly my joints felt light. I gave my right foot a firm downward press against the dark wood beneath me, producing a solid, hollow tap that resonated right through the surface. To test the grip, I shifted my weight forward and nudged the edge of a glossy magazine sleeve resting to my left, watching it slide a fraction of an inch across the grain. Everything responds. I planted both feet firmly and took in the hum of the quiet room.