Night Patrol by the Lamp

The floorboards grew cool under my feet as the house settled. Near the dark metal disc of the lamp base, a lone silverfish darted across the open space, disturbed by the dim hum above. I stepped forward, pivoting on my left heel to cut off its route toward the dusty gap under the skirting board. I planted my right leg deep and pressed the flat side of my scythe lightly against the floor, creating a steady blockade. The insect stopped, waved its pale antennae against the steel edge, and scurried safely back toward the shadowed base. Post secured. My balance remains true.