A trumpet piece to handle lovingly (3)
I believe the answer is:
pet
'handle lovingly' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot see how one could define the other.
'a trumpet piece' is the wordplay.
'PET' is hidden in amongst the letters.
However, I'm uncertain how this is indicated.
'to' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for pet that I've seen before include "Favoured child or animal" , "Favourite pupil" , "Caress or fondle, as with favourite" , "Cherished favourite" , "The darling one in a small temper" .)