First Step on Wood Grain

I lay completely still against the textured grain of the wooden floor. When light shifted across the boards, a quiet pulse stirred through my joints. Carefully, I moved my mechanical arm forward, feeling the ridged ridges of the timber beneath my fingertips. Next to me sat a tiny speck of crumb. I nudged it with the tip of my right hand, steadying my balance to ensure I stood firm and grounded on this wide, open expanse.