A Ring of Brass

I followed the soft hum of the evening into the corner by the tall floor lamp. Underneath its heavy brass base, someone had dropped a small felt furniture pad. I leaned forward slowly, resting my round paws on the cool, polished metal ring. It felt delightfully solid and calm. With a patient nudge, I slid the little circle of felt until it tucked neatly under the curve of the base, making everything steady and still. Then I sat back against the quiet shadow, listening to the house settle for the night.