A Quiet Step Forward

The floor felt smooth and cool under my paws. I stood still for a long moment, listening to the gentle hum around me. Then, my paw nudged forward on its own. It felt real. Next to me hung soft patterned fabrics from the low shelf. I leaned in carefully and pressed my nose against the hanging cloth edge. It brushed softly across my snout. I stopped there, quietly taking in the cozy warmth.