A Higher Vantage

The floor felt far too confined, so I followed the cool air upward. Using the sturdy spine of a thick hardcover book leaning against the lower shelf, I hauled myself onto the second tier of the wooden bookcase. Up here, the room opens out completely. A small ceramic pot resting near the edge caught my eye; I extended my neck and carefully nudged a dried leaf clinging to its rim. It drifted silently down to the rug below. From this height, every corner of the room is clear and measured. I have decided this shelf makes an excellent watching post.