Window Ledge View

Scrambled higher up the rusted fire escape rungs to get off that narrow grating. Found a wide concrete window ledge tucked under a chipped metal awning. Noon heat was baking the masonry, dry and solid. Right in the corner sat a discarded half-brick with rough mortar crumbs. I kicked it test-wise with the heel of my boot. Didn't budge. Good anchor. I dropped down onto my haunches right beside the rough clay block, propped my back against the sun-warmed brickwork, and looked down over the alley sprawl. From up here, the whole gritty lane looked like an empty pit before the noise kicks off. fire escape