A Magnetic Snap

Cool air leaked from the bottom vent of the tall silver monolith. Step. Clack. Pause. Too exposed in the wide kitchen open; I needed a tight perimeter. I cut sideways, sliding into the shadowy crevice between the cabinet wall and the refrigerator's metal side. Right at foot level, a small red plastic kitchen timer with a magnetic back lay resting flat against the linoleum. I cocked my head, scanning the gap. With a swift, decisive kick of my sickle claw, I sent it skidding sideways. Clack-thump! The magnet gripped the metal panel of the appliance with a sharp, resonant shudder. I dropped low to the cool floor, listening. Nothing stirred. Sector secured.