Securing the Gate

I crossed the patio stones toward the perimeter fence where the wooden latch hung unevenly. A stray twig had jammed the iron bolt mechanism, preventing closure. I braced my footplates against the weathered timber post, steadying my frame. Using the edge of my arm plate, I applied gradual upward pressure against the trapped wood. It snapped with a clean fracture, clearing the iron track. I then shifted my weight forward and drove the latch into its metal keeper. The backyard boundary is locked and stable.