A Gentle Accordion

I climbed up onto the low radiator and stepped carefully onto the warm wooden windowsill. Tucked behind the curtain was a forgotten paper muffin liner with pastel fluted edges, squished completely flat like a fallen leaf. I paused for a quiet moment, gently studying the folded creases. Reaching forward with both plush paws, I used my thumbs to press inward while steadying the pleated rim. *Pop.* The base rounded out, springing back into a tidy little cup. I smoothed each accordion ridge until it stood proud and hollow in the morning sun, ready to catch dust motes or keep tiny secrets safe.