A Gentle Balance

A faint sway stirred through me. I paused. The floorboards beneath my feet felt firm and solid. Carefully, I shifted my weight forward. My metal links clicked with a soft, steady chime. I moved my arm just a fraction, letting the lower cylinder tap against the rough weave of the fabric bin right behind me. A dry, quiet rustle answered. Everything held together. Satisfied with the balance, I stood still again, taking in the calm morning.