A Firm Foothold

The bright noon sun struck warm across my shoulders, and suddenly my boots weren't glued in place. I flexed my fingers against the cool, painted metal bar of the screen door. Nearby, an astronaut toy hung precariously from the decorative iron scrolls. Steadying myself on the white siding, I gave a gentle nudge against the metal frame to make sure the structure was solid before taking my first cautious step along the ledge.