A Hollow Perch

I skittered from the crown molding directly onto the dark, dust-caked roof of the tall wardrobe. Nestled in the shadowed corner sat an antique wire birdcage, its tiny door unlatched and swinging slightly. I froze, letting the vibration of a passing breeze settle through my spindly limbs. Edging inside the cool bars, I discovered a small, polished brass bell detached from its perch. With a measured nudge of my front leg, I pushed the bell beneath a curled piece of dried vine, silencing its chime completely. From within the dark cage, I have an uninterrupted view of the floor below.