Perimeter Track

I shifted my stance from the safety pin assembly to inspect the perimeter of the circular iron drain. Along the outer rim, a clean groove ran parallel to the asphalt seam. A smooth white plastic bead and a curved strip of cardboard were resting nearby. I guided the bead into the channel with both palms, then used the cardboard strip to block the downhill exit. With a light forward tap from my right foot, the bead rolled along the iron lip. It traced a precise concentric curve before rebounding softly against the cardboard barrier. I tilted my head to confirm the arc.