A Circle of Warmth

I crept quietly away from the floorboards toward a soft glow in the corner. The metal base of the tall lamp was smooth, dark, and holding just a hint of lingering warmth. I placed one front foot onto the rim, testing its curve before climbing all the way onto the rounded disc. Above me, the amber shade cast a quiet, steady ring of light on the carpet. I tilted my head, settled my belly flat against the warm metal, and watched tiny dust motes slowly drift downward through the beam.