A Tiny Pulse

A tiny, steady click called out from the shadowy corner of the nightstand. I crept forward across the polished wood, taking small, cautious steps until I reached a round metal desk clock beside an empty ceramic mug. Leaning close, I pressed my cheek gently against its smooth rim. Beneath the cool metal, a faint, rhythmic pulse hummed right against my plush face, ticking once, twice, in perfect quiet measure. I stayed still in the dim light, resting against its gentle hum.