A Silent Balance

The hum overhead is steady. I test my weight... one forelimb slowly shifts. The carpet beneath my claws yields, coarse and dry. My tail lifts, carrying the small pouch without a sound. Ahead, the yellowed wallpaper stretches into endless corners. I lean against the nearest column, pressing a paw against the textured surface to steady myself. The straps around my shoulders hold firm. I can move quietly. That is enough for now.