A Slow Turn Beside the Board

The bright hum of the overhead panels filled the room. I waited quietly, letting the low buzz settle around my ears. Then, slowly, my paws shifted against the hard bench. I took one deliberate step forward. Right beside me sat a square board game box. I reached out a front paw, feeling the smooth, glossy cardboard of the corner. It stood firm, cool and steady. I relaxed into my seat, perfectly content to stay right here.