Chapter 4 — The Hidden Brass Key

Lily

The morning sunlight streamed through the wide windows of Ardent Blooms, bathing the shop in a golden haze that softened its every corner. Dust motes pirouetted lazily in the shafts of light, while the faint hum of passing footsteps outside mingled with the creak of the wooden floor beneath Lily’s measured steps. The floral fragrance of roses, eucalyptus, and lavender filled the air, a familiar comfort that usually wrapped around her like an embrace. But today, it failed to dispel the unease that had taken root deep within her. The burglary, though physically past, lingered like a shadow in her sanctuary, its presence curling into her thoughts at unexpected moments.