The Rolling Perimeter

A two-tiered steel book trolley stood abandoned in the aisle, its swivel caster turned inward at an awkward angle. I approached with measured, deliberate strides and gripped the tubular metal push handle with both hands. Planting my feet firmly against the parquet floor, I exerted a slow, concentrated forward thrust. The heavy rubber wheels engaged, rolling three paces forward before I eased them to a halt parallel with the oak shelving. A deep, hollow rattle hummed through the steel framework and faded into the quiet morning air. The mobile transit unit is properly aligned.