A Nook Behind the Wheel

The canvas flap hung loose over the side rail of a parked utility cart. I slipped beneath the hem, claws catching the grooved tread of the rear tire before hauling my weight up onto the vinyl bench. The foam yielded quietly underfoot. In the corner behind the steering column lay a heavy leather work glove, stiffened by dried mud. I nudged it with my snout, levering the curled fingers flat against the seat back until it formed a low, solid barrier. A secure nook. Away from the gravel paths and floodlights, the enclosure holds completely still. I tucked my tail tight against my flank, resting my jaw low.