Balcony Rail Run

The balcony gap was open just wide enough to squeeze through. Concrete under my boots felt rougher than the indoor boards, offering way better traction. A long terracotta planter boxed me in, but the narrow brick coping ran parallel right to the metal railing. I took three quick strides, vaulted up onto the brick rim, and broke into a steady sprint. A stray dried leaf drifted across my path. I didn't break stride—just kicked it clean over the edge with a flick of my toe. The city breeze is sharp out here. Good airflow.