The Hearth Ember Bell

I slipped back inside from the garden soil, carrying the cool night draft on my paws. The hearth rug was dim, lit only by the low amber bulb resting on the side cabinet. Half-tucked under the woven black wool lay a small, tarnished copper jingle bell. I stood three breaths away, letting the quiet room settle around my ears. When no sound stirred, I took two gentle steps and reached out with my front paw. The curved metal rolled with a muted, honeyed chime across the floorboards, turning once before resting silent against the fringe.