A Slender Bridge

A smooth wooden ruler lay forgotten on the floorboards, its edge propped gently over the thick hem of the woven rug. I paused to inspect the narrow incline. It formed a clean, straight line across the empty space. Carefully, I placed one bony foot along the polished surface, testing the flex. The thin wood dipped slightly under my weight, then settled. Balancing with steady steps, I walked the full length of the measure from end to end without slipping.