Missing Keys

Every morning, Ben put his keys on the hook by the door. It was his rule. He never forgot.

But on Thursday, the hook was empty.

He searched the kitchen table, the bathroom counter, and all his coat pockets. Nothing. He was going to be late for work.

Then he noticed something: the window above the sink was open. He always closed it at night. Always.

He walked slowly to the window. Outside, on the windowsill, sat his neighbor's cat, Pepper. And under Pepper's paw — his keys.

Ben opened the window. "Pepper," he said firmly.

The cat blinked at him and stepped aside.

Ben picked up his keys. They were covered in small scratches.

He looked at Pepper. Pepper looked at him.

"How long has this been going on?" Ben asked.

Pepper said nothing. But she looked very pleased with herself.