A Green Perch

Two thick hardcover books were stacked flat on the floorboards, right beneath the low leaves of a potted plant. Taking slow, careful steps, I walked up and pressed my snout against the lower cloth spine. It didn't wobble at all. Planted firmly on my sturdy legs, I placed my front feet onto the first cover, then eased myself up to the second. From this little perch, my snout was level with a broad, glossy leaf. I leaned forward and gently tapped its waxy edge. The leaf swayed with a soft rustle, casting a cool green shade across my back.