The Green Blink

Hummmmm. A low electronic vibration ripples through the shelf wood. I freeze. One beat... two beats. Cautious scan. Two paces ahead rests a sleek black box nestled in shadow. On its rim, a tiny green eye pulses. Blink. Blink. Static warmth in the air. Decisive shift! I step forward and press a firm claw against the plastic shell. Tap! The light stutters in a rapid sequence. A warm drift of air escapes the vent slits, catching my head propeller. Whirrr! A clean, satisfying spin. Connection established.