A Snug Velvet Roost

I scrambled down the thick binding of the atlas, ready to track down an evening bunk after a long day at the desk. Resting right beside an ornate brass inkwell sat an oval pen tray lined with padded forest-green velvet, normally reserved for resting fountain pens. Perfect miniature hammock! I dashed across the leather desk pad, took a brisk bounding hop over the brass filigree rim, and settled straight into the curved velvet trough. The plush fabric dipped softly under my baked heels, cupping my biscuit back with an instant, cozy hug. I rested my elbows over the scalloped metal edge and gave a quiet, happy sigh into the amber lamplight.