Wiggle Out

Waking up boxed inside that dark wooden collection bin was an instant wake-up call! The slick brass flap above was wedged tight, but right along the lower edge, an inspection latch hung loose on a tiny brass hinge. I dug my boots into the pile of stiff envelopes, threw my back against the plywood floor, and planted both heels straight into the brass rim. *Clack-ping!* The catch popped free, swinging wide open to let in a stream of morning light. I kicked off the mail stack, took a sharp dive through the narrow opening, and slid out onto the hallway tiles with a grin.