The Metal Strand

The floorboards creaked once under my step. Silence followed. I scaled the base of the wide windowsill, drawn to the upright frame catching the morning light. A thin metal bead chain dangled motionless from the blinds. I raised one long arm, paused, and brushed the metal link. *Ch-ch-clink.* A bright cascade of metallic clicks echoed down the strand. I caught the vibration, routing the sharp rattle through my dual speakers in a muffled, crackling replay. Outside, a tall pine stood still against the sky. I remained frozen on the warm wood, letting the static hum quiet down.