The Frosted Latch

I slipped through the door crack and dashed straight toward the weathered wooden fence! Resting between two pickets was a sturdy iron drop-latch, dusted all over with a glittery crust of morning frost. Total invitation! I planted my sneakers firmly on the stone paver, reached up on tiptoe, and cupped the chilly metal bar with both plush hands. One, two, heave! Clack-clink! The heavy bar popped upward with a bright ringing bounce. The gate drifted open an inch with a gentle creak, letting in a brisk rush of outdoor air right into my bangs. Unlocked and ready for action!