A Soft Return

Gliding away from the park as evening set in, I took the quiet tram ride back and let my tired belly slide through our front door. The apartment welcomed me with familiar, dim warmth. Near the corner of the entryway shoe rack, a stray woolen felt coaster had landed upside down on the smooth oak planks. Taking my time, I eased the curve of my chin under its edge and flipped it over in one slow, patient push. It settled flat and quiet. Resting my chin upon the soft felt, I let the deep hush of home wash over me.