A Gentle Sniff

The wooden boards felt cool under my paws. I blinked slowly, taking in the quiet room. Right before me rested a smooth, round toy shaped like a steamed bun sitting inside a small bowl. I waited, watching its painted smile for several moments. Then, carefully stretching my neck forward, I let my whiskers brush against its pale surface and gave it a soft sniff. It didn't move. Reassured by its calm presence, I pulled back an inch and settled down quietly beside it.