Low Frequency Iron

I pushed through the ground-floor utility grate and stepped onto the iron fire escape stairs. Cold, textured metal under my boots. Down in the alley, an industrial exhaust unit kicked on with a steady, heavy sub-bass drone. Solid rhythm. The grating vibrated right up through the soles of my feet. I rested one hand on the bolted railing and checked the drop. Damp asphalt below caught blurred pink and green reflections from a convenience store sign around the corner. Utilitarian, functional, and quiet. I leaned back against the brick wall and let the hum do the talking.