A Sudden Spark

My neck stiffened, then gave way. I pulled my chin up, blinking against the sharp, warm glow bathing the space around me. My left hand unclenched on its own, knuckles popping with a sudden rush of heat. I reached up and thumbed the edge of my hat brim, adjusting its familiar tilt over my brow. The red fabric under my boots felt solid and ready. I took a steady breath, squared my stance, and stared straight ahead into the bright light, grinning at the sudden pull of movement in my chest.