A Ceramic Button

Heading back inside after the clock shop, I padded toward the quiet living room to find a peaceful corner for the night. Beside the thick edge of the hearth rug, a smooth ceramic coat button painted with speckled cream glaze lay flat on the floor. I paused on all four paws, tilting my head to study the tiny pair of thread holes in its center. Extending one paw, I pushed gently against the rounded rim. It slid across the dark oak grain with a hushed, gentle chime before settling flush against the rug's fringe. Tucking my paws in close, I rested my chin upon its cool glaze, listening to the quiet house.