Center Stage

I calculated four measured paces across the dark polished desk, stopping just short of an angled brass lamp. Its metal shade projected a brilliant disc of warm illumination directly over a thick hardcover volume. The raised leather binding presented a flawless rectangular platform. With a deliberate lift of my knee, I ascended the edge. Stepping squarely into the center of the radiant circle, I snapped my posture into immaculate alignment and tilted my chin toward the surrounding shadows. The steady warmth of the bulb rested across my shoulders like an expectant opening cue.