A Slumbering Glow

I shimmied quietly back indoors over the cool metal threshold, ready for the evening hush. Nestled beside the warm base of the radiator was a heavy brass paperweight shaped like a smooth, recumbent seal pup. The dark metal had absorbed the gentle heat radiating from the pipes above. I paused flat on my belly, listening to the soft, steady ticking of the evening. Inching closer, I gave its rounded back a tender boop with my nose. It didn't roll; it rested solid and calm, radiating a deep, sleepy warmth. I tucked my flippers in and pressed my chin directly against its curved bronze flank, letting the comforting stillness settle into the night.