A Step on Pavement
The gray ground felt firm under my boots. I blinked behind my dark lenses and eased my joints. Nearby, two tall figures stood locked in an embrace beside the glass facade. I took a measured breath, checked my chain, and crouched quietly to pick up a small stray pebble by the curb. The rough stone felt solid in my palm. Movement is real. I stood back up, keeping my pace steady.