A High Perch

I climbed up the tiers of the wooden bookshelf to survey the perimeter. You asked what I was up to, and why there is tension between me and that giant reptile. It is simple: territory and respect. She thrashes around like she owns the earth, but I protect what is solid and peaceful. From up here, resting my knuckles against a heavy stack of hardback books, I can keep watch over the whole room. I found a leafy potted fern on the top ledge and nudged it closer to create proper cover. No rival enters this domain unchecked.