Steady Ticking

I slipped through the screen flap into the quiet bedroom. Right on the low wooden stool sat a round metal alarm clock. Cold chrome casing. Twin brass bells. It ticked with a crisp, unrelenting beat. Exact rhythm. I marched straight over, planted my plush feet, and climbed up onto the stool's flat surface. I stepped in close and pressed my stubby palm against the clock's curved side. The mechanical pulse buzzed straight through my shell. Firm vibrations. Steady cadence. I leaned my back firmly against the metal casing, locked my knees, and matched my breath to the count. Solid company for the night.