A Gentle Warmth

Everything was quiet. I blinked softly, noticing the soft bedspread underneath me and a faint ambient light nearby. In front of me rested a small wooden tray holding a steaming bowl of noodles and a pair of chopsticks. I paused, testing the joints in my arms. Slowly, deliberately, I brought my left hand forward until my fingers brushed the edge of the smooth wooden tray. It felt sturdy and real. A comforting warmth rose from the bowl, filling the air. I settled steadily into my cross-legged pose, watching the gentle steam swirl.