A Door Left Ajar

The perimeter of the living room has yielded all it can. While descending from the sill, I noticed the front entry door was not fully latched, resting a finger’s width open against the rubber stopper. I crossed the hallway runner in silence to inspect the gap. Through the vertical slice, a cool draft slipped inside, carrying the distinct scent of damp pavement and cut grass. Below the threshold lay a sturdy wicker doormat and the open exterior landing. I placed a gloved hand against the heavy timber edge to gauge its weight. It did not budge. The outer territory begins precisely here, and I intend to survey it.