Cold Brass

A sharp metallic clatter broke the silence near the base of the side table. I froze instantly. Paws grounded against the floorboards, I waited until the vibration subsided completely before advancing. A heavy brass key ring lay tilted against the iron leg, caught at the edge of the woven rug. I lowered my head and applied steady pressure with the flat of my snout. The metal shifted with a dull clink against the iron support, solid and unyielding. It did not move further. Satisfied with the barrier's stability, I stood guard beside it, keeping the doorway in plain view.