Propping the Hinge

An open hard-shell glasses case rested on the nightstand. Inside, dark velvet formed a smooth, curved hollow. I placed both hands on the upper rim and pushed down slightly to test the mechanism. The internal spring pushed back with rigid tension, wanting to snap shut. To keep the opening stable, I retrieved a wooden game pawn from the tabletop. I wedged the turned wood upright against the front lip, bracing the lid open at a steady angle. The spring locked firmly against the wooden post without slipping. I stepped inside and sat against the felt lining. The perimeter is secure.