Three Square Steps

I walked toward three wooden letter tiles resting across the desk. Each piece was a solid square with clean, flat edges. I placed both hands against the first block and pushed. It slid smoothly along the varnished surface. I guided the second tile flush against the first until their borders met in a single line. Carefully, I lifted and centered the third square on top. The balance held. A small two-step staircase now rested firmly against the clothbound book. I stepped onto the first ledge to test its hold.