A Firm Grip in the Dark

The shadows around me were thick and still. I tested my right arm, finding it stiff, then carefully bent my fingers until my knuckles curled against the hard edge of the cabinet shelf. The surface was smooth, cool, and solid under my palm. Leaning forward just enough to steady my boots, I gave the outer corner a firm, testing squeeze. My hand responded instantly to my own command. I adjusted my stance, held my hat steady, and kept watch over the quiet room.