Yours, Eternally

Twenty-Five

Only two more hours before the exhibition commences.

The team sprung to action, engaging in updates and conversations with their walkie-talkies and guests; affluent individuals that were exorbitantly dressed in suits and gowns that were no doubt tailored from lavish brands. Of course, it would be blatantly unacceptable if commoners like us were to be turned up in 'rags' for a night like this.

Tonight, was a rare night for me to be dolled up; donning an off-shoulder A-line dress that resembled a deep wine tone; an elegant yet modest outfit that paired perfectly with a French bun. Mom was in awe as soon as I made my big appearance, while dad being dad, forced me to cover myself with a shawl.

I glanced around the room, surveying every detail to ensure that all was going smoothly. It wasn't until I had my attention locked on someone, who too, had his gaze fixated on me. Although it has been days since we last talked, no matter what the hour was, there was no blocking him out; he occupied my thoughts.

The swarm of girls that flocked to him was anything but unusual. After all, he was confident and alluring, a daydream and fantasy for most girls. Yet, what baffled me was his reveal to the media; one which he had kept under wraps for many years.

Why now?

The cameras swarmed around him, pushing him into the spotlights and no doubt, the headlines for tomorrow. He was about to have his hands full with the heart of ladies he had unintentionally charmed. Not that that would bother me, we were over.

If only my feelings resonated with my thoughts.

"Hey, Dan. Cover for me." I tore my gaze away from him, plunging back into work while I spoke into the earpiece. Somehow it felt like I was in a movie, an agent undercover, or even someone who was about to commit a heist. That inside joke was quickly replaced by a sense of duty as I headed for the safe, to escort the star of tonight's show.

"You got it. See you later." The team leader affirmed before returning to her duties.

Taking light and quick steps, I reached the safe within a matter of minutes. A loud click was heard after impressing the passcode on the touchpad.

This safe is bigger than my bedroom.

In it, were rows of precious gems and jewelry that were sure to fetch a high price. Just one of these would set an individual off on permanent retirement. As much as I would like to stay here and continue this sightseeing, there were more pressing matters at hand. The red box, positioned in the center of the vault, stood gloriously as if it was persuading me to open it.

Gingerly, I took the velvet package, unlatching the fastener as meticulously as I could.

Maybe I should have went on to be an archaeologist.

However, the jesting was brought to a halt once the material came in view. 

Blood raced through my veins before I soon felt my hands grow clammy from the cold sweat. The air was caught in my chest prevented my lungs from expanding. And before long, I could hear myself panting louder and harder.

The Crimson Solitaire was missing.

It took a little while to gather my thoughts and have my head grasped around the situation. 

All that was left of the necklace were the diamonds and metal plating that was supposed to hold the red gem. But now, that was gone. Though it was lucky that the gems from the ring and earrings remained intact, it didn't help much as the necklace was the centerpiece of this collection.