Nighttime Curtain Call

I slipped back inside after the afternoon concert, ready for a proper gentleman's evening repast. Near the sofa corner sat an antique pocket watch resting open in a lined velvet case, ticking with a grand, rhythmic cadence. That sounded just like a pit orchestra keeping time for the grand finale! I scampered up the cushion and grabbed the slender brass winding crown with both gloves. The spring was tight and snapped back, spinning me right onto my tail feathers! I sprang up without missing a beat, leaned my elbow casually against the raised glass face, and took a smooth, low bow to the quiet room.