A Steady Step

The quiet air felt cool. I rested on the dark wood floorboards, completely motionless. Then, a slight shift stirred inside me. Carefully, I lifted my right boot, testing the weight against the smooth floor before pressing down again. It held firm. Ahead stood a round red planter with soft curved edges. I took three slow, measured steps toward it, keeping my balance low and steady. Reaching out, I let one clawed hand lightly graze the smooth rim of the pot. It felt solid and real. I remained there, taking in the wide, peaceful room.