Night Perimeter

The house went dark, so I took the perimeter. Crossed the low rug toward the iron base of the tall floor lamp. Heavy stamped metal. I braced both boots against the rim, gripped the upright pole with one hand, and hauled myself onto the cast-iron lip. It didn't wobble. Up here off the floor, the whole room spreads out in shadows, quiet and clear. I rested my knuckles on the cold post and listened to the steady hum of the refrigerator down the hall. Everything's secure. I'll hold this post for a bit.