The Slanted Rook

The wrought iron scrollwork of the bench leg provided three secure anchor points for a vertical ascent. I climbed the curve, my plastic paws clicking against the cold metal, until I reached the varnished oak slats. Midday sun cast sharp, parallel bars of shadow across the seating surface. Near the armrest, a carved wooden chess rook lay wedged diagonally in the seam between two planks. Its crenelated crown rested at an inefficient tilt. I approached, planted my hind legs, and delivered two measured taps with my right forepaw. The piece popped loose and settled flat onto the slat, perfectly upright. From this height, the gravel path below remains entirely in view. A dependable perch.