A Brass Pendulum

From the window sill, a nearby wooden shelf offered a higher perch. I carefully stepped across the gap, using the sturdy spine of a thick blue book to balance. Right beside it sat a small mechanical metronome made of polished wood and brass. I paused, watching the faint reflection in its brass face. Reaching out with one paw, I gave the counterweight a gentle tap. The metal arm tilted, then swung back with a deep, resonant tick. Tick, tock. It rocked steadily in the quiet room. I sat down beside it, following each sweep until it finally slowed to a gentle stop.