Tactical Withdrawal

The wind outside grew sharp, and night settled in deep. Time to withdraw from the balcony and secure the interior. I slipped back through the sliding door seam, boots clicking quietly across the floor runner. Up on the couch, two massive cushions met in a deep, protected wedge. I squeezed into the seam, planted my back against the firm foam wall, and let the tension drain from my frame. Safe harbor reached. Power core transitioning to maintenance mode.