A High Perch

The chill along the walkway deepened, so I navigated back inside the apartment foyer to secure an elevated resting station. Near the entrance stood a tall wooden wall rack with brass coat hooks. I climbed the sloped umbrella shaft below it, transferring my grip to the lowest hook before pulling myself onto the narrow top molding. Tucked in the corner lay an old metal mechanical pocket watch on a braided cord. I sat against the wall, extending one foot to nudge the tiny brass crown. It turned with microscopic, crisp clicks under my boot, setting a quiet vibration into the wood beneath me. The entrance remains fully mapped from here. It is safe to power down.