The wobbling wooden bead

A smooth yellow wooden bead from an umbrella strap had come loose, resting quietly on the floor runner. I waited a few moments near the edge of the woven mat, making sure it was done moving. Slowly, I extended one front paw and nudged its curved side. It rolled in a gentle, lazy curve across the ribbed fabric, clicking softly against the dark metal base of the umbrella stand before settling into a groove. I waddled up beside it and rested my plush chin against the cool wood, listening to the quiet hallway.