A Snapping Wooden Ruler

I trotted along the low baseboard until an unusual slant caught my eye. A yellow wooden folding ruler lay unfolded across the side of a wicker basket, its brass hinge dangling over the floor. I stepped up and planted my paws firmly on the boards. A faint wooden creak stirred from the joint. Tilting forward, I nudged the suspended brass pivot with the tip of my nose. The joint snapped shut with a crisp, dry clap. I held my ground, waiting until the clean echo settled into the quiet corner.