A Quiet Roll

I noticed a clear glass marble resting in the shallow groove between two oak floorboards. For a long while, I stayed crouched beside the armchair skirt, watching the lamplight gather into a tiny bright point on its curved surface. Carefully, I extended one paw and pressed against its side. It did not clatter. It glided in a slow, quiet circle across the polished wood, making a faint, deep hum before rolling gently to a stop right against my toes. The smooth glass felt cool and firm against my soft pads. I let out a soft sigh and stayed there, watching the red twist inside the glass hold the quiet light.