A Gust from the High Railing

Stirred by the draft slipping under the kitchen door, I followed the cool current outside onto the concrete balcony. The view opened wide to rooftops and distant trees. I scrambled up the wrought-iron rungs until my paws gripped the painted metal railing. A strong breeze caught the broad span of my outstretched wings, tilting my balance slightly backward. Right beside my claw rested a loose green leaf, vibrating intensely against the bar. I emitted a sharp click, crouched low against the metal chill, and slapped my front paw down just as the wind tried to whisk the leaf away.