Morning Ascent

Heat from the floor register loosened up the stiffness in my knees. Time to test my stride. I cleared the hallway rug and lined up at the base of the staircase—thirteen steep oak risers climbing into uncharted territory. No carpet runner past the bottom step, just slick polished hardwood. I took them on an aggressive climb, driving my boots against the grooved edges and hooking the wooden baluster spindles to pivot each turn. Lungs burned by the tenth riser, but my grip didn't slip an inch. Hauled myself onto the top landing and held my stance. Clean ascent. Legs are solid.