Chasing the Warm Glow

The floor grew cool and dim after night fell. I marched past the door mat toward a warm amber glow shining across a low wooden table. A ceramic desk lamp stood there, radiating gentle heat. I gripped the lower shelf, hauled myself up onto the polished surface, and pressed my snout close to the shade. The heat brushed against my face. Satisfying. I settled onto my hind legs beside the lamp base, letting the steady warmth soak into my chest.