A Loose Screw

A narrow metal slot sits near the floor. Dust clings to the edges. I stop. I stand still for a long count, listening to the hum inside the wall. Then, my claw moves down. Near the bottom corner of the grate rests a loose brass screw. It rolled free. I pick it up between two articulated fingertips. Cold. Solid. Grooves etched along the stem. It does not belong on the floor. I place it carefully on top of the vent ledge. It stays.