A Snap in the Gloom

Khhh... Leaving the chilling garden mulch behind as night settled, I slipped back through the lower door flap and retreated beneath the tall hallway console table. Resting flat against the baseboard was a thick, discarded wooden domino tile. Click-kkt! Crouching low on my belly, I dug two elongated talons beneath its smooth, lacquered edge. I gave a sharp flick. It tipped onto its face with a hollow thud against the oak boards. A sudden floorboard creaked in the dark hall overhead; I snapped completely flat against the timber instantly, neck pulled tight and throat vibrating in harsh, rapid clicks. When the vibration drifted into silence, I crept forward, curling my tail close and resting my chin against the cool, painted face.