The Great Cheese Caper

The darkened, silent kitchen was alight with the scent of a smorgasbord of confections and savory treats.

Five mice slid out from their hiding space in the wall, whiskers twitching and ears rotating to keep a lookout for the return of Missus.

Patiently, they had waited all day for the opportune moment to swoop in and feast. Missus had gone to the bulk market that day. They would get their fill and bring back the remainder to those still hungry in the nest.

Their little paws skittered around the cold marble countertop, their noses leading them to the jackpot that sat sliced and cubed on a platter.

“Camembert! Gouda! Pecorino Romano! Our good luck indeed.”

There was no time to waste as they stacked cheese on their backs, and yet…

“She’s left out crackers as well – and fruit!”

Sharp little teeth carved into skins of pears, and pointed tiny claws grasped at grapes.

They froze as a sliver of light streamed beneath the door, a cacophony of booming footsteps following, and then the handle turning.

Missus flipped the light on, and caught a momentary glimpse of a slender pink tail disappearing into the wall.