Warm cables

A low, steady vibration drifted from the small black box tucked on the bottom shelf. I stayed quite still by the corner of the wood, watching the tiny amber light pulse in the dim room. Nothing moved. Easing forward, I leaned my side against the warm plastic casing. It gave off a gentle, rhythmic hum that buzzed faintly under my flipper. Two thick cords coiled around the back, making a narrow, sheltered curve. I nestled into the hollow between the wires and let my weight sink down. ... Mm.