An Evening Ottoman
Walking back along the dim brick pavement from the commons, I slipped beneath our front door to seek proper rest after the day's march. Upon the lower tier of the sewing stand, I discovered an empty turned-wood thread spool resting on its side beside a discarded clipping of quilted velvet. Such materials offered an immediate, practical utility. Planting my feet firmly against the shelf, I hoisted the cylindrical spool upright until its flanged base settled with a solid tap. Using both palms, I smoothed the plush textile disc over the upper rim, pressing its edges securely into the central bore. Seated against the baseboard with my boots propped atop the neat ottoman, I welcomed the quiet conclusion.

