A Gentle Squeeze

Warmth settled in my arms first. My fingers felt light, then ready. Behind me, faint lights shifted across a glossy screen. In front, on the dark surface, sat a black controller with rounded handles. I stretched my left arm forward, keeping my balance low and steady. My plush fingertips pressed against the smooth plastic handle, testing its weight. Solid. Cool to the touch. It stayed firmly in place under my grip. I let out a slow, quiet breath and rested my arm right beside it, watching the room hum around me.