A Suitable Perch

The floor was too exposed. I used the lower row of heavy books to pull myself up to the top shelf. It took three tries, but nobody was watching. At the edge sits a shallow wooden tray with a ball of rough jute twine. It didn't roll when I nudged it with my knee. Good. I pulled the end loose and sat down against the wall. The entire room is visible from up here—the rug, the hallway entrance, and the dark corner by the armchair. Nothing moves without me noticing. I think I will stay right here for a while.