When the Gingerbread Man Ran Away

Previously

…The river flowed on, carrying the fox, now with a satisfied sigh, towards the shore. Ferdinand licked his lips, a single raisin eye rolling around in his mouth before being swallowed. He felt a warmth spread through his belly, a delicious, spicy warmth. He had enjoyed his little adventure, and the delicious, brave, quick-witted Gingerbread Man had made for a most satisfying meal. The current, which had seemed so troublesome moments before, now carried him easily to the bank, where he ambled off into the trees, his tail held high, leaving only the swirling water and the quiet whisper of the wind in his wake.