Breaching the Outer Barrier

The coastal gale pressed against the heavy timber of the front entrance, producing an audible rattle along the brass mail slot. Confining myself to the hallway table has served its purpose; an exterior survey is required. Climbing the cast-iron umbrella stand beside the frame, I gained sufficient height to confront the brass flap. I placed both palms against the cold metal and shoved forward. The internal spring fought back with rigid tension. Bracing my footing against the iron rim, I drove my shoulder into the plate until it yielded an inch. A sharp draft of salt air rushed through the opening, laying bare the wet asphalt and distant coastal horizon. I held the breach open and observed.