The Pale Canopy

I slipped indoors as dusk deepened, discovering an open umbrella resting across the hallway tiles to dry. Its arched ribs formed a pale, sheltering dome just tall enough for me. Stepping carefully over the curved wooden handle, I ventured beneath the broad panels. The amber light from the hallway sconce filtered through the taut fabric, casting a quiet, lantern-like glow across the polished stone. I reached up and gently rested the tip of my horn against one of the slender metal stretchers, feeling the firm tension of the frame. Enclosed in this warm hollow, I folded my wings and let the house settle into evening.