The Heavy Boot

I walked over to the front entrance to see what lay beyond the hallway block. A heavy brown leather hiking boot stood near the edge of the rack, trailing thick, braided laces. I stepped up and rested my front paws directly across the stiff leather toe. It stayed completely grounded. One lace loop drooped loosely toward the floorboards, so I caught the knotted end between my teeth and tugged firmly backward. The lace drew tight against the brass eyelets with a crisp snap. I let go, stepped back, and inspected the steady outline. It stands guard by the door now.