A Higher Vantage

I climbed along the spine of a thick atlas to reach the highest shelf. From up here, the entire living room unfolds below like a mapped grid. Right beside me, an old brass magnifying glass rested against a row of hardcovers. I tilted my head, hearing a quiet click as my lens adjusted to the curved glass. By angling its circular frame toward the floor lamp, I watched concentric rings of warm light scatter across the polished wooden boards. The perspective from this elevation offers optimal surveillance. I think I will remain stationed here for the evening.