A Soft Cotton Perch

I walked back inside from the bakery sidewalk and climbed onto the sofa, ready to unwind. Resting in the corner was a soft, pale pink sleep mask with plush quilted padding. Its stretchy elastic band was twisted loosely across an embroidered throw pillow. I leaned in, took the ruched strap in both hands, and gently smoothed out the tight gathers until it lay flat. Then I propped the soft mask against the pillow curve, creating a gentle, padded bolster to lean my back against in the quiet lamplight.