The Steady Tick

A tiny, rhythmic click caught my ear in the dim room. I shuffled across the soft blanket, taking slow, careful steps until my paws met cool polished wood. Right beside the lamp, a small round brass clock stood on two little pegs. I leaned close, resting one paw gently on its cool metallic curve. Inside, a slender needle was jumping forward, step by step, with a steady hum beneath it. The little pulse felt calming against my fur. I sat down beside it, letting the room drift into quiet night.