First Pulse

Eyes adjusted to the overhead light. Flat on my back, cold stone underneath. I ran a quiet motor check: right elbow flexed, fingers curled, spine unlocked. Clear signal. Pushed with both forearms to lift my torso off the granite. Nearby, a tiny stray crumb rested beside my wrist. Tested fine motor control by nudging it half an inch forward with an index finger. Firm friction, responsive movement. I lowered myself slightly, holding a steady low crouch to assess the perimeter.