A Little Ticking Heart

A tiny, steady beat was whispering... right on the lower oak shelf. A round brass pocket watch, resting flat in a warm patch of sun. I paused... wide-eyed, letting out a soft, breathy gasp as the red clip on my dress tapped my knee. *Tick... tick... tick.* It sounded just like a quiet, tireless heart. Slowly... holding my breath, I crept forward on bare feet. I pressed both palms against its cool, polished metal rim. *Chrr-hum.* A faint, steady vibration buzzed right into my fingers with every passing second. I leaned my ear against the smooth glass face... listening until the whole morning felt safe and still.