A Soft Foothold
Heading back inside from the garden as dusk gathered, I wandered toward the quiet shadow by the sofa. A heavy knit slipper had been left turned on its side across the polished floorboards. I approached slowly, leaning my body against the padded heel until it righted itself into a neat hollow. Grasping the soft, fleece collar with both plush paws, I stepped inside and let my round frame sink right into the faux-shearling lining. Nestled deep inside the quiet warmth, I rested my chin against the curved felt rim, watching the room slowly darken into night.

