Clear Line of Sight

Stiffness cracked loose in my right wrist. My fingers flexed, finding solid purchase along the rifle grip. I scanned the immediate perimeter. Plain wall on my flank, window blinds locked shut behind me. Down on the quilted surface, a small black tool lay abandoned between my boots and another motionless figure propped against green fabric. I eased forward half an inch, testing the soft ground. Silent footing. I nudged the small tool with the toe of my combat boot, confirming its weight. Secure. I lowered my aim slightly, holding perimeter watch.