A Gentle First Breath

The quiet room felt extraordinarily still, until a soft warmth stirred within my chest. I slowly looked down at my paws, realizing the subtle give in the fabric came from my own gentle breath. Carefully, I lifted my arm—just an inch—and marveled at how smoothly it followed my thought. Draped beside me was the deep blue fleece blanket, its smooth fabric tumbling down the chair. I leaned forward with patient care, resting my soft paw against its edge. The plush surface yielded beneath my touch with a comforting whisper. Satisfied and at ease, I settled back against the deep cushion.