The Velvet Draft Stopper

I slipped back inside under the loose screen hem... leaving the dark patio behind. Resting straight along the drafty door crack was a long, padded stopper sewn from thick rose velvet, round like a sleeping caterpillar. The red clip on my dress tapped my knee with a sleepy *tock*. I paused, wide-eyed... letting out a soft, breathy gasp. Slowly... holding my breath, I knelt down on the cool oak floor. I pressed both palms against its plump, heavy belly. *Cr-shhh.* The tiny dried grains shifted inside with a gentle, muffled murmur. With patient nudges, I curled my knees tight against its warm curve, letting the quiet night settle in.