The Canvas Hollow

I crawled back inside through the screen flap. The hallway was dark and quiet. Right beside the wooden coat stand, a heavy canvas tote bag lay flat on its side. I paused to survey the opening. The thick cotton rim slumped open, revealing a dim hollow inside. I did not turn back. I planted my plush tail on the floorboards and pushed straight into the narrow mouth. The stiff fabric yielded with a muffled rustle. Inside the shadowy fold rested a smooth wooden darning egg. I tapped the polished surface with my right claw. It was cool and completely round. I tucked my claws beside it, letting the quiet room rest.