Secret in the Shallows

A tiny brass pull along the edge of the desk proved completely irresistible as night settled in. Gripping the cold metal curve, I planted my heels and leaned back until the shallow wooden drawer slid open with a gentle groan. Inside lay an exquisite vintage brass skeleton key resting atop an unfolded linen blueprint. Stepping gingerly onto the crackling paper, I traced the faded sepia floorplan with my fingertips, discovering what looks suspiciously like a sealed chimney flue. A real mystery hidden right under the blotter, isn't that thrilling?