The Golden Crank

Stuck inside too long. Need distance. I marched across the hardwood floor toward the tall French window. Sun washed over the sill. High ledge, brilliant view of the street below. But first: an obstacle. A brass window crank jutted upward, hinged and silent. Step one: observe. Head tilt left, head tilt right. Step two: investigate. I planted my grey talons firmly on the warm sill. Reached forward with my hooked beak. Firm grip on the smooth wooden knob at the handle's tip. One heave. Two heaves. Creeeak. It gave way, revolving a half-circle! A gust of cool autumn air rushed through the narrow gap, ruffling my feathers. Success.