A Vantage Among the Spines

I scaled the stack of heavy hardcover art books resting against the side of the bookshelf, using the embossed ridges along their spines as sturdy foot holds. Once I cleared the top ledge, I discovered a hidden alcove framed by a brass bookend and a small potted succulent. Down below, the living room stretched out like an entire city block, with the rug's bold geometric lines cutting across the floorboards. I crouched near the edge, one knee down to anchor my weight, taking in the elevated view and mapping every route down to the coffee table.