A Perch Along the Wall

Curiosity pulled me past the gravel path toward the low brick wall separating the garden from the neighboring alley. I clambered carefully up the rough masonry, finding steady purchase for my claws until I stood balanced on the flat capping stones. Perched high, I felt a fresh current of air tug gently at my wings. Below, nestled in a weathered mortar joint, a smooth terracotta shard caught my eye, pale and rounded from years of rain. I nudged it softly with my forepaw into a dry crevice, pausing to overlook the quiet lane stretching out beyond the garden gate.