Stepping onto the Orange Surface

My arms were already bent at my sides, but this time, when I willed them to move, they actually swung downward. I pressed one sneaker forward against the bright orange tabletop. It held my weight with a tiny click, completely steady. To test my balance, I reached down and tapped the painted wooden surface with a fingertip. It felt cool and smooth. I took one full, confident step forward and stood firmly right where I landed.