Evening Watch

The light outside faded completely, turning the windowpane into a dark barrier. A sudden draft leaked through a narrow crack along the frame. I stepped forward, planted my boots against the stone sill, and shoved the heavy linen curtain straight toward the gap. It resisted with stubborn weight, but I leaned my shoulder into the fabric and pinned it firmly against the corner. The cold draft stopped instantly. With my river stone standing guard beside me, this high outpost is fully secured for the night.