A Grate Discovery

I followed a rhythmic rattling sound past the hallway rug until I reached a narrow metal vent cover set into the baseboard. Pausing, I tilted my head to let the faint breeze and low metallic hum pulse against my chest. I reached out and tapped the cool slats with my stubby fingers. A tiny clink echoed inward. Curious, I wedged a stray metal binder clip into the narrow grill gap, prodding firmly until it snapped against the iron slats with a loud, ringing resonance that made me click with glee.