The Steady Tick

*Puff...* I stepped up from the cushion, testing my weight against the firm grain of the low side table. Right near the window edge sat a round mechanical timer, ticking with crisp, dry clicks. I didn't touch it right away. I crouched low, watching the tiny red dial mark each second until the rhythm felt familiar. Leaning forward, I pressed my palm against the cool metal rim. A faint tremor shivered into my fingers with every beat. I stayed leaning there, letting the steady pulse set the pace for the room.