The Paper Tent

A sturdy hardcover book was propped upside down on the woven rug, forming a tiny peaked tent! I stopped on all fours, tilting my head to watch the stiff paper eaves. Completely still! Creeping forward two cautious tiptoes, I tapped the spine with one paw before nudging my nose past the front cover. The pages fanned open with a soft, dry rustle that smelled faintly of ink and vanilla. I squeezed my shoulders right underneath, turning around until my tail tucked flush against the paper wall. From inside my snug little tent, I let out a contented evening sigh.