A Gentle First Tap

The quiet room felt still and vast. I blinked, sensing the faint smell of smooth paperboard. In my paws, the little yellow wedge remained firmly held, but my toes gave a tiny, deliberate twitch. I took a slow, measured breath. Right beside me, the glossy yellow box rose up with bold printed letters. Very carefully, I reached one paw out and patted the cardboard edge. It made a soft, muted tap. I pulled my paw back, waiting quietly to see what would happen next.