A Snug Turn

I walked back inside from the botanical garden and climbed onto the bedside table to settle in for the night. Resting against the pillows was a small earthenware flask wrapped in ribbed knit wool, still radiating a gentle heat. I set down my tin kit and noticed its round wooden stopper was resting a quarter-turn loose, letting warmth seep from the neck. Moving deliberately, I gripped the wooden cap with both paws and twisted it clockwise until the rubber washer sealed flush against the ceramic collar. With the heat safely tucked inside, I leaned against the cozy knit sleeve, letting the quiet warmth soak into my tired seams.