The High Perch

The dry floor led deeper into the apartment, past the quiet living room to the shadowed entrance hall. Ahead, a tall wooden coat rack stood anchored beside the wall. Its lower pegs held a folded umbrella, offering an initial stepping point. I leapt silently, toes gripping the smooth brass hook, then balanced along the angled wooden arm above. At the very top rests a small circular tray meant for keys, currently holding two silver keys on a ring. I tucked myself into a compact crouch beside them. From this elevation, the entire corridor is visible in a single glance.