A Soft First Step

The quiet room felt gentle. I blinked, noticing the textured carpet beneath me. Very slowly, I shifted my weight forward. My front paw pressed down into the soft fibers, leaving a tiny dip. Behind me, the dark fabric of the play tent rustled with a quiet whisper. I paused, taking a slow breath. I can move. Everything here is calm, and I am glad to simply stand here and listen.