When he tried unsuccessfully to open the box, he realized that a small tack-like nail held the lid firmly shut. As he worked at the nail trying to remove it, he believed he could smell the tobacco already.
(In making this gift, she had insisted on the element of surprise.)
The nail jerked free, as if by sudden decision. Now he held the delicate little rod between forefinger and thumb, unsure what to do with it.
(Her hand, cupped, moved to receive the slender nail.)
He let her take it from him, then lifted the square lid.
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