A Bookmark Step

I came across a thick paperback lying open near the edge of the coffee table. A colorful strip of cardboard was tucked loosely between the pages, sticking out just far enough to make an angled ramp. I took my time, testing each step with my rigid plastic boots until I reached the top ridge of the paper spine. From up here, the pattern of printed letters looked like little rows of hedges. I nudged the bookmark flat with both hands so it wouldn't slide off, then sat down against the open page to rest.