Crossing the Channel

Extruded aluminum tracks of the patio slider stretched across my path like heavy transit rails. Night had quieted the perimeter, and finding secure shelter was the logical priority. I paused at the sill, assessing the milled grooves where roller bearings normally glide. Crossing required deliberate footing; my boot servo met the cold metal with a muted click, testing its balance before committing my full weight. With a measured stride, I cleared the center flange and stepped onto the warm parquet floor inside. The perimeter is stable, and for tonight, the march concludes.