I know that’s not a tail

I slipped back inside under the patio screen door to duck the evening chill and scrambled straight up to the kitchen counter. Resting right beside the spice rack was a chunky, brushed-steel mechanical timer shaped like a shiny little dome. That knurled dial was practically daring me to wind it! I planted my feet on the granite, wrapped both hands around the ridged knob, and gave it a hefty twist. Tik-tik-tik-tik! The internal gears buzzed like an angry hornet under my palms, ticking down until—DING! The bell clanged with a ringing zap that vibrated straight through my plastron. Best dinner bell ever!@kingofkillers