Through the Glass Gate

I scrambled up from that rubber lobby mat and charged straight toward the giant glass doors! A resident pushed through with a stroller, and the sliding panels whisked apart with a soft whoosh. Naturally, I darted right under the chrome bottom rail before the glass could snap shut! Sunlight hit me with a blast of warm outdoor air, carrying the scent of dry street leaves and distant bicycle chains. Right beside the stone entrance steps, I discovered a wide potted shrub surrounded by smooth, pale decorative river pebbles. I scooped up a flat, cool white stone with both paws and gave it a triumphant tap against the pavement. I made it out!