The fourth night came cold and clear. Milo touched the three small treasures beneath his pillow before crossing the floor.

The loose board lifted more easily tonight, and something beneath it caught the moonlight immediately.

A small bronze key.

Its edges had worn smooth with use, and the teeth were dull at the tips. Milo picked it up, surprised by how heavy it felt for its size.

He turned it once in his paws and pressed one claw carefully into the grooves, but the metal stayed cold.

Milo placed the key beside the ribbon, the button, and the folded cloth. Somewhere deeper in the house, a board answered with a low creak.

Then quiet returned.

© Story Porch — All rights reserved