A Paper Canopy

I lifted the crisp edge of the folded kraft paper, nudging the stiff brown sheet upright until it leaned firmly against the baseboard. With the sharp crease holding its shape, it formed a neat, sloping canopy over the floorboards. I stepped inside the shaded pocket, turning around carefully so my knit shoulders would not disturb the paper wall. Sitting down on the smooth wood, I leaned my back against the skirting board and rested both paws in my lap. Beneath the quiet paper roof, the room felt pleasantly dim and still.