The world outside has fallen away. I hear not the creatures of the night, nor the cars passing by. A single set of sounds occupies my mind, created by the space within this house. There’s too much to hear inside for me to focus on anything else.

           Within these walls, I can hear a soft wind blowing, and if I open my eyes, I know I’ll see strands of light dancing for the invisible flowing… But I can never see the strange wind. I can only hear it from beneath closed eyelids.

            There’s a soft crackling accompanying the audible breeze as if it’s been carrying crumbs of special treats and dropping them on the hardwood floor for me. I wouldn’t eat these crumbs though if they fell, they’re usually darker than the night sky that makes stars shine, and would burn my tongue if I even tried. I know I won’t be making that same mistake twice.

            But perhaps the loveliest sound of all comes from the one that breathes, even breaths stroking their lungs as they begin to fall asleep. I sit with my arms and legs curled beneath me, small enough to lay perched on a human tummy. I hear a voice of pure silk whispering, and though I can’t understand a thing, I know exactly what they’re saying. “Sweet dreams, kitty.”

It doesn’t matter that we’re still on the couch. This is where we like to sleep… nestled together for warmth even though there’s never been a more welcoming heat. I relax the rest of my body, smelling the burning wood mix with my human’s natural perfume, “Goodnight.” I mewl in my own tongue, with a yawn, and let my jaw settle down so my human’s favourite sound from within me can carry on.

That’s how I drift asleep. Purring and smiling, safe within my home, safe by the fire.

Jasper Compton

Jasper loves to explore different types of art – especially writing. It’s a passion that brings joy and serves as an outlet of self-expression. It’s a place to go, a realm of self-creation, beyond the ordinary.