A Breeze Across the Threshold

I pushed past the hem of the long white curtain near the sliding door. Ahead lay a wide gap, leading out onto a patch of grey stone tiles. A cool rush of air ruffled past my ears. I paused and tilted my head. Out on the balcony floor, a dry, crinkled brown leaf was twirling in small circles. I stepped across the metal door track with both front paws. I stretched my nose forward and nudged the crisp edge. It skittered away with a light, scratching rattle against the rough tile.