First Step Forward

Front paws, check? They bend! I nudged forward, pressing my paws straight into the deep ridges of the dark cushion. The fabric holds firm beneath me. To my right, the small orange plush rests steady, and the giant yellow plush sleeps right behind my back like a quiet mountain. I straightened my legs, lifted my chin toward the tall white door, and took in the wide, open floor ahead. Steady footing, clear perimeter! Ready for duty.