A Gentle Ripple

The quiet air feels... steady. I paused, letting the stiffness melt out of each segment along my neck. Slowly, very slowly, I lowered my jaw against the patterned fabric beneath me. It gave way with a soft, silent fold, like calm water settling against a bank. I nudged the stitched ridge of the seam just a fraction forward, feeling the gentle resistance. Then I drew back and rested there, listening to the vast, peaceful hush around me.