A Hollow Snap

An open, wool-covered spectacle case was resting beside the armchair, its spring hinge propped wide. I paused. The dark velvet lining inside looked deep and still. Shuffling forward with measured steps, I pressed my blunt snout against the raised upper rim. The spring gave way. *Snap.* The case clamped shut with a crisp, hollow clack. I did not startle. I blinked unhurriedly, waiting for the vibration to settle into the floorboards. Nearby, a folded blue lens cloth lay loose. I gave it a patient nudge, wedging it neatly beneath the closed hinge. I leaned my plush belly against the solid curved shell and rested.