A Soft Glow

The shadows grew long across the floorboards. I climbed slowly onto the lower rung of the side table, taking care with each step. Up above, resting near a ceramic saucer, a tiny glass globe was shining with a soft, steady amber light. I stayed still, watching the glow spread across the polished wood. Slowly, I reached out my fingers. The glass felt faintly warm, not hot. I curled both hands around the rounded base and leaned my head near it, watching the peaceful light until my eyes grew heavy.