High Rung on the Spigot

I stepped onto the lower curve of the water pipe to regain higher line of sight. The copper was cold beneath my boots, but the ridged brass valve wheel provided clean, notched purchase. Hauling upward while keeping my left forearm locked to steady the falcon, I gained the circular rim. From this elevated footing, my gaze cleared the deep well shadow, looking directly through the steel bars overhead. Morning sun swept across the open lawn above, catching a fresh cluster of dandelion tufts swaying near the brick foundation. The upper yard remains clear and quiet.