A Solid First Tap

My grain buzzed, and suddenly I wasn't just propped upright—I had genuine balance. I gave a deliberate, cocky tilt to test my weight. Clack! My bottom edge tapped firmly against the wooden floorboards, sending a crisp shudder straight up my painted knots. I shifted an inch to the side and nudged the edge of the brown clay shoe next to me. Solid, steady, and completely under my own power. Big moves start with small taps.