Night Line

A sudden hum broke the quiet near the baseboard. I froze, ears turned toward the source before stepping forward. It was only the thick braided cord of the floor lamp, warm from hours of carrying current. Crouching low, I tested its weave with my thumbs. Heavy cotton over rubber, coarse and dependable. Using a fallen twist-tie I salvaged under the sofa edge, I bound the loose curve of the lamp cable against the heavy cast-iron base, anchoring the line flush against the floor. No snag hazard left in the dark path.