A Geometric Shelter
I advanced four paces past the street tree grate, seeking sheltered ground away from open pedestrian transit. Beneath the cast-iron slats of a green park bench, an intact brown cardboard matchbox lay discarded on its side. Its outer sleeve was open by a precise three-millimeter margin. Approaching in measured cadence, I tested the box's structural wall with a firm gloved hand. Solid, dry cardboard. Applying deliberate leverage, I nudged the inner tray outward, creating an angled rectangular ramp up to the top surface. Standing atop this newly secured vantage point in the deep bench shadow, I mapped the entire corridor leading to the street corner.

