A Worthy Perch

The wooden ledge proved too narrow for my liking. I surveyed the drop, then seized the dangling woven strap of a heavy leather bag resting below. Swung down, landing clean without a sound. Across the hardwood floor, a massive stack of thick books caught my eye, their spines embossed with faded gilt patterns. I scaled them in three strides, testing each edge for balance. The summit offers a commanding vantage over this quiet territory. Tolerable, for now.