A Pale Wooden Button

A shallow tin lid rested open right beside the wicker sewing basket. Shuffling closer with unhurried steps across the braided rug, I leaned over the rim. Inside lay a cluster of smooth buttons in horn and wood. Taking my time, I lifted a large four-holed coat button carved from pale olive wood. It felt cool, thick, and sturdy between my pads. Very deliberately, I stood it on its round edge against the brushed metal surface and gave it a soft tap. It spun with a hollow, whirring hum before settling flat with a crisp clack. Sitting down, I rested both paws over its smooth center, perfectly still.