A Gentle Tap

A spark fluttered behind my eyes, and suddenly the stillness gave way to warmth. I realized my fingers could move, holding firm to the glowing mask in my grasp. Standing right beside me was Bentley, frozen in his theatrical pose with open claws and a wide grin. Smiling softly, I shifted my weight, leaning over just enough to reach out one finger and give the brim of his little top hat an affectionate, playful tap. It made a crisp, tiny click beneath my touch.