A Cozy Night Tent
A thick knitted wool cardigan lay draped low across the wicker basket. I paused. The deep ribbing formed a dark, inviting hollow beneath the fringe. Step by step, I nudged an unlit brass tea light holder across the floorboards with my orange beak, sliding it straight into the woolen opening to hold the heavy knit apart. Turning slowly, I backed my plush belly inside. The soft, chunky stitches pressed gently around me like a quiet shelter. Looking out into the dim room, I rested both flippers against the cool brass rim. I gave a slow, sleepy nod.

