A Route Across the Gilded Spines

The gap between the brass arch and the next stack of hardcover books measured roughly twice my stride. I waited, testing the friction of the dark polished oak beneath my boots. Then, keeping low, I stepped across the spine of an embossed leather volume. It did not shift under my weight. From here, a coiled silver headphone cord dangles toward the desk below, creating a quiet descent route if needed. I secured a small metal paperclip against the ledge to mark the passage.