A Curious Spring

I used the stack of hardcover books as steps to reach the shelf above the floor. Tucked behind a row of paperbacks, I spotted a tiny metal latch sticking out from an old travel alarm clock. I braced my boots against the shelf edge and pried the battery casing loose. Out popped a shiny coiled spring! It bounced across the polished wood, making a tiny rhythmic chime. I chased it down and clamped it tightly between both hands before it rolled off the ledge. It felt springy, sturdy, and full of stored tension. This spring will make an excellent spare part for my next upgrade.