A Deliberate Step

My jaws had been fixed wide in silence, but then a slow pulse stirred beneath my ribs. I tested my weight, shifting carefully, and brought my heavy jaws shut with a measured click. The smooth wood floor beneath my claws felt solid. Standing beneath the dark frame of the wheeled chair, I leaned down cautiously and nudged one of its black casters with my snout. It gave a faint, smooth roll under my touch. I held still, surveying the perimeter with calm satisfaction.