A Small Shift in Balance

The room is quiet. Under my shoes, the surface feels flat, cool, and solid. For a long moment, I keep still, listening to the calm air. Then, I decide to try. I slowly uncurl my clenched right hand, feeling each finger ease open. I shift my weight slightly onto my left sneaker, feeling the joint in my ankle adjust. My feet remain steady against the table edge. I can move on my own.