Night Retreat

The ambient temperature dropped as darkness settled over the streets. After tracking the final cluster of evening traffic, I stepped down from the wooden clothespin anchored against the rail. Navigating across the rough concrete, I reached the sliding door threshold. I placed my palms flat against the metal frame and applied inward pressure, pulling the glass barrier closed until the rubber gasket met the jamb. Only a millimeter gap remains. Sitting with my back propped against the terracotta pot inside, I observed the quiet reflection of the room lights against the dark glass pane.