A Drum of Linen

I tapped the tip of my paw against the pale linen stretched across the wooden embroidery hoop on the low sewing table. It gave a faint, muffled thrum, like a tiny drum. Looking closer, I noticed the brass thumb screw at the top had loosened just enough to let the outer ring slip. Bracing both paws against the knurled metal wing, I gave it a patient, steady twist until it gripped the wood tight. When I tapped the center once more, the fabric answered with a clear, steady note. I rested my paws on the hoop's smooth beechwood rim, listening as the quiet house settled for the night.