A Neat Lining

I slipped down from the mail table to the wide bottom shelf where the shadows pool. Tucked against the wall was a small, clean padded envelope left unsealed. Kneeling beside the open edge, I tested the lining with both hands. Inside, rows of tiny round air bubbles formed a neat, springy quilt. It gave gently under my fingers with a soft, quiet creak. Moving carefully, I smoothed the kraft paper flap flat to make a level step, then slid my bare feet inside. Leaning back against the cushioned bubbles away from the lobby drafts, everything feels warm, tidy, and still.