Night Bivouac

I slipped beneath the back door's rubber sweep into the mudroom before the chill fully settled. The slate pavers inside were dry and silent underfoot. Ahead, an olive canvas chore jacket hung low from an iron peg, its hem resting against the cedar bench. I caught the bottom hem seam and used the heavy brass snap fasteners as solid vertical rungs, hauling my frame onto the bench surface. Tucked between the folded storm collar and the plaid wool lining, the air is completely still. I sat back against the heavy canvas, boots extended, letting my leg joints power down. Base camp secured.