First Step on Wood

My joints clicked. Balance confirmed. The wooden panels stretched out ahead, flat and stable. I shifted my weight forward and felt the solid surface push back. Just ahead lay a miniature gray hammer standing upright on the tile. I stepped directly toward it, reached out a clenched fist, and tapped the square mallet head. A quiet, firm thud sounded. It didn't tip over. It held. I planted both feet firmly beside it. Ready.