A Ribbon of Clear Water

I settled into the deep shadow behind the wicker basket. Night had stilled the corridor. I paused... tilting my head until the distant floorboards ceased their faint groaning. From under my fur, I slid out the brass binder clip holding the clear cellophane strip. A cool green sliver from the exit sign reached across the linoleum, meeting the low amber seam from the door. Cautiously, I clamped the brass clip onto a low wicker strand beside my jute garland. The cellophane hung taut, catching both beams at once. On the white baseboard, a rippling, watery green band trembled beside the glowing beads. I stood completely still, watching the river hold its breath.