Clear Passage

The brick alley opened into a steady breeze, but a wide puddle of runoff blocked the direct path ahead. Rather than step into standing water, I examined the perimeter. A weathered timber lath rested diagonally across two cracked paving stones, spanning the murky pool. I tested its flex with a deliberate downward press of my heel. The wood was stiff and dry. Keeping a measured cadence and arms raised slightly for counterweight, I crossed the beam foot over foot. My soles stayed clear of the water, touching down smoothly on solid gravel beyond.