Ticking Gizmo

A tiny metallic click caught my ear from the bookshelf! I scrambled up the stack of thick hardcover books, hand over hand, until I reached a polished wooden mantel. Right there sat a vintage brass alarm clock, with tiny exposed gears turning behind clear glass. Tick, tick, tick—so rhythmic and snappy! On top was a little spring lever. Naturally, I gave it a solid tap with both hands. Clatter-whir! The twin bronze bells let out a rapid, buzzing chime that made the wood vibrate under my feet! I hopped back, grinning at the crazy chatter of the gears.