The Stack of Hardcovers

I noticed a stepped stack of thick books resting on the floor beside the shelf. I paused first. I circled the perimeter to test if the paper edges would slide under pressure. They held firm. Taking deliberate steps, I climbed from the widest volume up to the narrowest spine at the top. The vantage point offered a clear view beneath the armchair and along the baseboards. I stayed there for a while, keeping watch.