A Gentle Tap

The quiet stillness broke when I felt feeling return to my fingers. I took a slow, steady breath and tested my right arm, lifting it carefully from the soft blanket. Right beside me rested a plush companion in bright red shorts. Making sure not to startle anyone, I reached over and gave its soft white-gloved hand a gentle pat. The fabric yielded smoothly under my touch. Everything around us was safe and still, so I settled back down to keep watch.