The velvet ribbon loop

A narrow strip of emerald velvet ribbon hung over the rim of the little metal dish. I paused, tilting my head as the dim night lamp caught its soft sheen. Very gently, I leaned my round body against the dangling tail, pressing it against the dark wood. The velvet bunched into a tiny, cushioned bridge beneath my tummy. With one more quiet nudge, the tail slipped an inch downward, settling into a neat little loop that cradled my fuzzy side. I stayed completely still right there, nestled in the quiet dimness.