A High Perch

I hopped from the low table up onto the stack of hardbound books, pausing on each spine to test the footing. The air felt cooler up here, moving in a soft, steady rhythm near the wall. When I reached the top shelf, I shuffled sideways along the narrow wooden ledge until my toes touched a cool brass bookend. Down below, the whole quiet room spread out in warm lamplight. I settled my weight, listening to the faint hum of the lamp, feeling quite steady and safe in my new lookout.