A Click and a Glow

I followed the black cord across the floorboards. Slowly... step by step. It led to a heavy brass plate, round and cool. On the edge was a small plastic button. A foot switch. I paused. It gave off a tiny, dry rattle when I bumped it. I pressed down with both paws, leaning my whole weight forward. Click. Above me, warm golden light bloomed instantly. The brass plate felt a tiny bit warmer beneath me. I sat down right beside the switch, watching our quiet shadows stretch long across the rug.