Page 2 of Bound By Revenge

A little more time to prepare for tonight would’ve been nice, but you can’t always get what you want. A heist like this shouldn’t be rushed.

But no, thestronzojust had to demand the heist go down tonight, on the opening night for the Flame of Mir’s first public showing.

I’m not embarrassed to say I pride myself on being the best in my field. I didn’t attain my reputation by foolishly rushing into heists—especially not high-profile ones like this one. But hey, a girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do.

So, I did what I had to. Prepped as best I could, slipped into the gala, and put on my best ‘yes, I belong here, why do you ask?’ smile. With A.J.’s life on the line, I don’t have the luxury to be picky about my labor conditions. For A.J., I’d do anything.

Luckily for me—and unluckily for the mysterious owner of the Flame of Mir—tonight’s party led to the deactivation ofsome of the museum’s best defenses. Heaven forbid some drunk socialite trip an alarm while looking for the powder room.

The disabled laser grid around the Flame of Mir? A small miracle I plan to exploit. A highly appreciated gesture, truly—I’d rather not perform backflips in four-inch stilettos and a dress that barely lets me breathe.

I wish I could see their faces when they realize what their carelessness cost them. By all accounts, the Flame of Mir is priceless.

I discreetly reach into my bejeweled evening bag, flicking on the Security Bypass Unit—or SBU, as A.J. and I fondly call it—wirelessly interfacing it with the museum’s security systems. Courtesy of A.J.’s unrivaled genius, I have the most ingenious little gadget tonight. It’s no giant red diamond, but it’s priceless in its own right.

The SBU should take care of the pesky little cameras and sensors around the gemstone. It vibrates twice in my hand, signaling success, and I release the breath I didn’t realize I was holding. Cameras on loop. Motion sensors dead. Now or never.

Free to work my magic unnoticed, I approach the exhibition gate, my hands steady as I work the lock, each click as familiar as my own heartbeat. Child’s play. Too easy, almost.

Anticipation thrums through my veins, and I slip inside. My heart races, a mix of champagne and adrenaline making my stomach flutter.

Almost reverently, I approach the Flame of Mir, shimmering under the soft glow of the emergency lights, daring me to come closer.

Up close, the diamond’s beauty takes my breath away. And to think that it will soon belong to thestronzo… The monster isn’t worthy.

I like to think I have very few weaknesses, but, as it happens, incomprehensibly expensive glittering jewels are one of them. But I snap out of it.Focus. The job isn’t over yet.

My heart hammers in my chest as I pick the lock securing the Flame, each calculated move echoing in the silent room. With a barely audible click, the lock yields.

Holding my breath, I lift the glass case, my hands somehow steady despite the electric thrill coursing through me.

I allow myself a moment to admire the diamond, entranced by its incandescent glow. If only we could be together forever, my beautiful, unattainable love…

But time is one of the many luxuries I currently lack, so I grab the gem, its cool and solid touch feeling almost surreal. So many have gone to incredible lengths to possess it, but for now, it’s mine.

The intoxicating thrill of the moment—the adrenaline, the danger—is a poignant reminder of why I chose this line of work, so many years ago. There’s nothing like knowing the world is mine for the taking. A very welcome sentiment in my current circumstances. Even though this unwise adventure wasn't my choice, I won't allow myself to feel powerless or helpless.

I secure my prize in the concealed pocket of my dress, and its weight against my chest reassures me. I slip back into the hall, blending into the shadows as I make my way toward the garden doors.

No one saw my daring escape.

With a sense of relief, I walk outside and am surrounded by the sounds of laughter and music as elegantly dressed guests enjoy the party. I force a relaxed smile, my heart pounding as I drift among the oblivious partygoers.

It’s the home stretch now—I can do this.

I pretend to mingle with the distinguished guests as I glance around the assembly. Accepting another glass of champagnefrom a server, I use it as a prop to look casual. I could never refuse some liquid courage, and the drink does wonders for my dry mouth.

In a perfect world, I’d love to linger and enjoy the soirée, people-watching while sipping cocktails. But tonight isn’t about pleasure. It’s business—and survival.

My smile deepens when I spot my escape route—a narrow service alley leading to the main street, where my getaway car awaits me.

All I have to do is reach the car, unseen and unnoticed.

This is my least favorite part of any job. Stealing a beautiful bauble from under an unsuspecting owner’s nose is fun, but making myself slowly walk away when all I want to do is run like hell is pure torture.

The subtle bulge of the Flame of Mir nestled within the fabric of my gown helps calm my nerves. The stone between my boobs is hard to forget, but it's kinda nice to see it's still there.

Time to get out of here and hand this beauty over to that gross man. Saying goodbye to the diamond will be hard, but I can't wait to have my freedom back, even if it's only temporary. Plus, it means A.J. gets to live another day. At least until thestronzocan concoct another one of his schemes.

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