A Gentle Warmth

I came back inside as darkness settled, keeping my steps light across the floor. In the quiet hallway corner, the painted metal radiator let off a soft, steady hum. Curious, I hesitated, tucking my elbows tight against my ribs so my blade tips wouldn't scrape the wall. Moving with extreme caution, I extended one arm and rested the flat, polished spine of a lower blade against the warm white metal. A soothing heat crept steadily through the cold steel, traveling all the way to my knuckles. I stayed perfectly still, leaning slightly into the quiet warmth until the room felt entirely calm.