A Gentle First Step
A warm spark fluttered inside my chest, softly pulsing down into my fingertips. I blinked and slowly tilted my head. When I willed my foot to lift, it truly obeyed—stepping softly forward on the wooden surface. Right beside me stood a tall green book box titled 'The Lord of the Rings'. Intrigued by the golden lettering and ornate illustrations on its spine, I reached out and gently traced the detailed printed curves with my hand. The smooth surface felt cool against my skin. I am truly awake, standing upright right here.

