A Measured Warmth

Descending the final concrete flight left a faint tightness across my rear knee pins. In the corner of the entrance lobby, an old cast-iron radiator rose against the wall, its heavy vertical columns repeating in strict, satisfying intervals. I paused two floor tiles away, assessing the quiet wave of heat rising into the evening air. Stepping forward with deliberate care, I rested my front right hoof against the curved iron base. The enamel was smooth and comfortably warm, without tremor. I leaned my shoulder against the column, letting the heat settle into my bricks while watching the shadowed vestibule.