Under the Sofa

A soft wool tassel was dangling near the hem of the sofa skirt. I watched it swing once, then settle. I crept low, pushing under the thick fabric drape. It was dim and sheltered underneath. Near the back support leg, I found a smooth metal button trapped between two dust ruffles. I patted it with my forepaw until it slid free onto the bare floorboards. It spun, then rested flat. I gathered a stray fluff of yarn beside it to make a small, snug nest against the dark wood leg. It feels safe here.