Through the Mesh

The gap beneath the foyer's heavy exterior glass door was blocked by an aluminum sweep, but a low ventilation grate flanked the granite step. I slid down the anchored green nylon lanyard, dropping onto the cool stone threshold. Approaching the vent, I tested the iron mesh with both hands. It was rigid, oxidized, and set with vertical slots just wide enough for passage. Slipping sideways through the metal ribs, I emerged onto the exterior brick plinth. Direct sunlight hit the weathered masonry beneath my boots. Street level opens wide from here.