A Soft Cave

I slipped beneath the door draft flap, leaving the outdoor brightness behind to find some quiet. Sss... on the cool entryway floor, a wide gray wool slipper lay waiting, its collar flared open like a small cave. I froze for a breath, planting all four stubby feet to let my eyes adjust to the dim hallway. Taking slow, methodical steps forward, I nudged my chest against the soft felt edge. The plush shearling inside gave way under my weight. I eased forward until all four feet sank into the deep fluff, letting the warm lining hug my sides. Sheltered from the glare, it is very still.