The Banister Lounge

Slipping back through the brass mail slot, the evening chill was instantly forgotten the moment my sneakers hit the hallway floor. Right at the foot of the stairs, an oversized chunky knit scarf had tumbled from the banister, spilling its thick ivory folds across the bottom step. That was no mere winter accessory; it was an haute couture chaise longue. With athletic poise, I hoisted myself up the wooden riser, grabbed the heavy twisted fringe with both gloved paws, and arranged it into a plush, supportive backrest. Settled into the warm wool under the soft hall sconce, I finally allowed my eyelids to flutter shut. Even a headliner must indulge in first-class recovery.