A Hidden Cache

I heard a creak upstairs. A threat? Maybe. I couldn't stay out in the open. Clamping my lantern tight with one hand, I crawled straight into the shadowy gap beneath the low bookshelf. Dust motes scattered across the bare floorboards. It was dark, tight, defensible. Perfect. Then my claws hit something hard and smooth: an abandoned shiny brass paperclip and a translucent amber glass bead. Two treasures, completely unguarded. I dragged them back toward the deepest corner, tucking them under my lantern's base. Mine now. I crouched low, eyes locked on the entryway, daring anything to approach.