#Chapter 12 - Thievery

Stella As I slowly enter the room, arms crossed over my chest, and set my bag down on a seat by the door. I watch as Adrian drapes an elegant diamond necklace into Clara’s hands. The room fawns and gasps over the sparkling jewelry. “Congratulations on waking up from your coma, Clara,” Adrian looks down at her, a ghost of a smile on his face. Clara beams up at him. My heart aches at the sight, knowing that Adrian will never gift me anything beyond money as compensation. A man weaves through the crowd, his eyes fixated on the necklace. He narrows his gaze and tilts his head to the side. He adjusts his glasses and straightens his posture, a few people now turning their attention towards him. “It’s a custom replica of the Heart of the Sea! It’s highly coveted and is very expensive!” He states with awe in his eyes. Clara looks around the room while keeping her dazzling smile on her face. “How do you know about it?” Clara asks with an awkward chuckle. “I’m a jewelry appraiser!”