Solid Ground

Silence. Then... weight. Real weight. I felt the stiffness in my knees unlock. Both boots planted deep into the glossy cover beneath me. I didn't flinch. I clenched both fists, tightened my jaw, and brought my right heel down hard against the thick cardboard. A dull, heavy thud answered. It held firm. Solid ground. I braced my shoulders, took in the quiet room, and stood tall. Nothing moves me.