A Gentle Glow

The room turned dark, but a tiny lamp clicked on beside the sofa. I inched forward, feeling the smooth polished surface beneath my tentacles. It was warm right under the lampshade... a soft circle of amber light on the wooden tabletop. I slid slowly into the center, tucking my little arms in close against the warm lacquer. The hum was very quiet. It felt safe, steady, and just right for resting as the night deepened around me.