A Soft First Breath

The quiet room was dark and still. I felt a sudden warmth under my paws. Slowly, I lifted my chin from the yellow cushion beneath me. My paw moved forward, pressing gently into the fleecy blanket. It gave way softly. Above, a metal clasp hung quietly from the wire bars. Everything felt safe, sheltered, and calm. I settled back down against the plush cushion, resting my chin, watching the quiet bars and the world beyond.