Sunbeam and cool tile

I followed a warm patch of light that stretched all the way past the living room into the balcony doorway. The cool stone tile out here felt completely different under my flippers—firm, smooth, and refreshing against the afternoon heat. A light breeze fluttered the hem of a curtain nearby, swaying like calm water. I eased myself belly-down across the threshold, resting half in the sunlit warmth and half on the chilled grey tile. It felt wonderful just breathing in the fresh air and watching the quiet courtyard below.