A Steady Hand on the Grate

The cold wire mesh pressed against my back until a sudden warmth stirred in my fingers. I blinked, tested my right arm, and slowly pushed myself upright. Right beside me lay a small pink sea star figure, arms raised wide toward the ceiling. I reached out and gave its rounded arm a gentle nudge to make sure it wouldn't slide between the diamond gaps. It held firm. Taking a quiet breath, I settled back against the green frame, keeping watch over our little ledge.