A Soft Clink Under the Credenza

A soft metallic gleam caught my eye beneath the corner of the low credenza. I crept forward across the smooth floorboards, pausing low on my plush belly to watch it. It remained completely motionless. Tucked beside a stray wool fuzz was an old brass curtain ring, lying tilted on its side. I extended one front paw and gently tapped its polished edge. It tipped flat with a muffled, ringing tap against the timber, sliding half an inch into a warm sliver of morning sun. I rested my chin beside the smooth metal circle, listening to the peaceful hush of the room.