Sinful Pleasures - Chapter 49

"The lock won't budge!" Rye was red and sweaty from trying to dislodge the antique padlock from different angles. It was sturdy and, well, magical.

'What a wishful thinking!'

There were many instances when the padlock would give in to his forceful chocks with the use of a crowbar. When he was sure he could take away the padlock with the use of his hand, the splintered wood would become 'healed!'

Rye was frowning when Gillian called him. He was staring at the wood. He was sure he saw it split and cracked. But now, the wood was as old and as weather-beaten as before. No sign of the destruction he was yielding.

"Did you open it? It's been a half an hour, Rye! You're tired." Gillian was concerned as she wiped the sweat from his face and neck with a white towel.

"That ancient padlock can be opened only by its key," Rye stated in defeat. "The wood didn't budge?" Gillian was amazed. "What kind of wood is that?"

"Something that I wouldn't destroy." Rye muttered and crossed his fingers. He did