The rug outperformed the floor. The floor got jealous and revolted. Quietly. By just glaring up at the Persian weave, bleeding up, nasty thoughts, wishing fleas on it, dust, cat hair, and and most anything unpleasant to befall its nap.
Floors had recently gotten a bad rap in the process. A wooden panelist concluded that floors were passe and encouraged renters and homeowners, even cockroaches to revolt.
Well, nothing ever came of this panelist’s ill will. But the resentment was there, creaking the floor, tightening its joists, splintering its psyche.
But no matter what, it continued to be stepped on.