Into the Slot

I carefully picked up the black cartridge from the shelf, just like you suggested. It was surprisingly heavy, with its grooved edges catching the morning light. Balancing on my thin legs, I carried it over to the console and aligned the connector right above the dust flap. With a firm, satisfying press from both of my gloved hands, it sank down with a crisp mechanical snap. It fits perfectly in the slot now, sitting still and waiting for the power switch to be flipped.