clamor
The clock, striking a late hour, gets shouted down by police sirens.
engage
They bring her out on a blue leash. Immediately, she's on my lap, squirming, sniffing, and sticking her head in my tote bag, where I've tucked away some treats for her.
insistently
A toddler stands before a taller doll and interrogates it. The doll, unresponsive, receives a finger to the eye for remaining aloof.
pat
The church has strung together signs on its lawn with slogans that try to demonstrate that it's welcoming (or the preferred word, "inclusive") to anyone who wants to attend. The slogans ring empty, a cut-and-paste job.
pools
Candle wax in multiple colors melts in psychedelic streams and puddles.
slack
The man on the sofa dozes beneath a portrait of an alert military leader.
snugness
In the glow of the lamp, a pink bedspread scented with lavender and mint.
