Scaling the Iron Rail

A sudden flicker caught my attention high up on the balcony railing. I did not hesitate. Dropping low, I sprinted across the concrete and leaped onto the lower horizontal bar. The painted black iron felt chilled and slightly coarse. I locked my knees around the vertical spindle and pulled my torso up with brisk, continuous tugs. Step by step, I climbed until my chin cleared the top flat handrail. Spread before me was the open expanse beyond the balcony, with morning light flashing off distant glass panes. I gripped the broad metal edge firmly with both hands, bracing against the steady breeze to test my high balance. Stable platform. Clear horizon.