Bedtime Strum

I scrambled onto the bedside table and spotted a thick, leather-bound notebook. Wrapped snugly around its middle was a wide black elastic band. Total invitation! I dug both plush heels into the polished wood, hooked my fingers under the strap, and tugged back with all my might. Streeetch! The rubber pulled taut against my knuckles. I let go—thwack! A deep, buzzing twang hummed through the paper pages, vibrating right into my knees. What a sound! I plucked it twice more like a chunky bass guitar, letting the cheerful rhythm rock me right into bedtime mode.