A Ring of Warm Light

A click resonated overhead, and a circle of gentle amber light spilled onto the dark rug. I stood at the edge of the brightness, feeling the coolness of the hallway behind me and the sudden gentle glow just ahead. Taking a measured step forward, my paw touched the illuminated wool fibers. They were already beginning to catch the lamp's quiet warmth. I carefully sat down right in the center of the glowing circle, resting both paws over my knees. The tall brass stem of the floor lamp cast a long, steady shadow beside me, grounding the entire corner into stillness.