I ran across a key not too long ago. Of course, the way my mind works, it could have been years ago. It just seems like it was this summer.

Doesn’t really matter, I guess.

I don’t remember doing anything with the key. On the contrary, I guess I do remember thinking I should just leave it where it was. I don’t remember why I might have thought something like that. And I can’t imagine why I would ever think something like that. I just think that’s what I remember I did.

I know, it’s all a bit sketchy. Mysterious, even.

This morning I was in the basement tidying up a bit. Well, if Courtney is going to work on her basement… I just don’t want to feel left out, is all.

And then there’s this computer desk that I need to move from upstairs down to the basement so I can get my DVR off of my workbench. Yeah, I know. All the sawing and hammering and whatnot, can’t be very good for it.

Oh yeah, the key. So right next to the workbench, next to the spot where the DVR is currently set up… And I should point out that right above that is where my TV is, and there is the audio cable and the s-video cable going up into the wall — well, the point is that the DVR needs to stay pretty close to where it currently sits, that’s all.

Anyway, right next to the workbench is this wooden box. Big wooden box, like a trunk. No, not like an elephant’s trunk. I should go measure it. I’m afraid, though, that if I get up to measure the box, you all will take the opportunity to sneak off, and I’ll be left here all by my lonesome. No? You’ll be here when I get back? Promise? OK. Hang on.

OK, it’s 36 inches wide, 17 inches tall, and 23 inches deep. Big wooden box. And what’s inside? That’s just it — I don’t know what’s inside. I know what’s NOT inside, and that’s nothing. I moved the box to make room for the aforementioned computer desk. So I know there’s something in the box.

But you see, the box is locked. And not with some cheap, crappy combination locks. Like in high school, when you left a love note in this girl’s locker and then you thought, oh my god, what have I done, and you turn it this way and that and you feel for the spot where it picks up the thingy inside and then you turn it the other way until… well I’m just saying it’s not that kind of lock.

Heavy duty. I know I used to keep stuff in there I didn’t want anybody to get their hands on. Secret stuff. But I thought I moved all that to another, more secure location. I just don’t know.

Maybe it’s cash I stashed for a rainy day. Maybe it’s a supply of canned goods for, you know — just in case. Maybe it’s spare ammunition — ditto.

I’ve just gotta find that key, because maybe it’s… so where do you all think I put that key? And what do you think might be in that box? And no fair lurking on this one. I need your help!!