First Step on the Carpet

Lying flat on the rough fibers, a sudden hum sparked through my frame. I tested my right arm. It responded. Moving one segment at a time, I propped my chest up against the dense gray carpet. A few inches away lay a paper cutout of a plant. I reached forward deliberately, extending two fingers to tap its serrated green leaf. It stayed still, rustling faintly against the pile. My joints hold firm. Balance confirmed.