“Look — there.” You pointed to the corner where folded bleachers abutted a small stage, at the base of which was a battered upright piano. I looked, not understanding, and you pulled me closer.

You whispered, as though it were a secret: “It’s unlocked.” …
–Invention #8 

Sneaking in just in time to keep my one-story-a-month pledge, here’s a short invention to keep you busy. I’ve got a couple of more substantial – and, sorry, darker – stories on deck, but neither of them are quite ready yet, because I’ve been on the road (on a boat, on a plane) for all but a couple of days this month.

But I wanted to hold myself to my promise. So here, in the meantime, I hope you enjoy Invention #8.