Leaning over the railing, I look down.
It’s the second floor, not impossibly high, but high enough that jumping isn’t really an option.
My eyes move to the balcony beside mine.
The guest room.
At least I think it is.
And if I’m lucky, maybe the door is unlocked.
I study the gap between the two balconies. It’s not that far.
The edge of the house runs between them, just broad enough to serve as a path.
I climb onto the stone railing and slowly step out.
One foot and then the other.
My hand stays pressed against the wall, though I know it’s pointless. You can’t really hold on to a flat wall. It’s just something to do while I try not to look down.
The only thing stopping me from falling is my balance.
I move slowly and carefully.
When I finally reach the next balcony, I breathe out in relief and grab the railing.
My foot slips. For one second, my stomach drops and the ground rushes towards me. I manage to catch myself, hanging awkwardly.
My arms burn, but I hold on and pull myself up.
The moment both feet land safely on the balcony, I look down.
“Phew. That was close.”
I almost died.
Actually, no.
I probably wouldn’t have died.
I’d have broken something.
Maybe ended up with a bloody nose and a scraped knee.
Blood.
I like seeing my blood.
It’s nice.
Maybe I should…
A scream rips me from my thoughts.
I snap my head towards the room and take off running.
When I reach the door and try the handle, it opens.
