A Chalk Barrier

Descending from the steel bucket, I advanced along the driveway until a thick piece of yellow sidewalk chalk blocked my line of march. It was blunt and powdery. I dropped onto heavy knuckles and braced my feet against the asphalt. Gripping the dense cylinder in one broad palm, I pressed it firm against the stone surface and dragged it sideways with steady shoulder weight. A broad, dusty yellow line scraped across the dark gravel seam. The mark held true under the midday sun, sealing the lane. I rested my knuckles beside the fresh streak, watching the road.