A Little Step Across the Planks

Warm morning light fell across the grain under my paws. I blinked, realizing I could turn my ears. Carefully, I lifted one front foot and placed it forward. Tap! The floor felt smooth and firm. Ahead sat a round black plastic base with a coiled black cord resting nearby. I took two quiet steps closer, pausing to inspect the curved edge, and reached out with my nose to gently nudge the cool plastic rim. It gave off a tiny hollow click. I settled right there, listening happily.