Ascent on Granite

I slipped through the lower gap of the door to reach the courtyard outside. Ahead of me rose three tiered garden steps, carved from rough grey granite. I placed my right boot upon the first rise, testing the stone's grip. Midway up the second ledge, a smooth river pebble lay trapped in a seam, shifting under the slightest weight. I paused, reached down, and deliberately worked the pebble loose with my fingers, rolling it safely aside into the dark soil. With firm footing restored, I climbed to the top ledge and stood surveying the quiet expanse of the yard.