A Gentle Tap

The quiet around me felt deep until a tiny warmth stirred inside my chest. I blinked, watching the dim room slowly come into sharp focus. My ears gave a soft, involuntary twitch. Looking down, I realized I could choose to move. Cautiously, I eased one small hand from my heavy cloth sleeve and extended my fingers downward. The grooved bamboo beneath me was cool, smooth, and entirely real. I pressed my fingertip against the wooden grain and let out a faint, questioning murmur, keeping my balance firmly on the sturdy slats.