A Warm Return

The chilly street breeze began to stir the sidewalk leaves, telling me it was time to head back inside. Slipping through the lobby door behind a neighbor, I padded silently up the carpeted stairs until I reached our familiar landing. Right beside our doorframe, a brass mail slot caught a sliver of hallway light. I stopped a few paces back, waiting quietly until everything settled. Then, stepping forward with measured care, I nudged a dropped woven doormat corner flat with both front paws, tucking myself neatly into the sheltered nook beside the door. Home is right on the other side.