First Stride

Fists clenched. Weight shifted. My feet planted firmly onto the soft white fabric beneath me. I am solid, and I am awake. Directly in front stood a small stuffed lizard in a hat, balancing quietly on the folded cloth. I took one deliberate step forward, extended a spiked knuckle, and gave the fellow's brim a firm, testing nudge. It wobbled slightly, steadying on the bed. Ground holds. Perimeter is clear.