Sideways Steps

I slid one bare foot sideways along the woven rug, keeping both hands pressed firmly against the edge of the low coffee table. My knees wobbled for a breath, but the sturdy wood held me upright as I shifted my weight across. Just out of reach near the corner sat a bright turquoise wooden block, smooth and glossy under the noon light. Taking another careful, shuffle-step along the frame, I reached out with one hand and wrapped my fingers around its squared wooden face. I lifted the block cleanly off the tabletop while staying upright on my feet, swaying in place with a proud, happy coo.