Serendipity

High Risk, Higher Reward

Gazing up at the clouds I couldn't help but smile in satisfaction. The sunlight felt warm on my skin as I sighed in content. It was a beautiful day and I was feeling lucky. Slowly I sat up from where I lay on a grassy hill overlooking the city. I always tried not to get too attached to the various locations I lived, however this city had definitely been one of my favorites. Taking a deep breath of fresh air I stood up and grabbed my backpack. I turned my back on the city I had come to love and began walking towards the train station. The weary feeling I had quickly faded as I pondered where I could possibly end up next with a smile. That was until he showed up.

"Katie." I heard someone say my name, their voice breaking slightly.

I tensed, stopping dead in my tracks. This was always the hardest part, it didn't always happen thankfully but every now and then it did. Sometimes people would become more attached to me than I had ever intended. I turned to face the guy I had befriended during my time in this city. He looked so broken, his fists were clenched at his sides. I frowned knowing this was going to be difficult. So much for feeling lucky.

"Josh." I said his name softly, just as he had said mine.

"You were just going to leave? Without saying anything?" He said his broken voice conveying his pain.

"I left you a note-" I began to speak but he snapped at me.

"No! A note isn't the same as telling me face to face. Where are you even going? I thought you were happy here, with me." He ran a frustrated hand through his hair.

"I'm sorry." I muttered looking away from him.

"Why are you going?" He choked out and I glanced back up at him.

"There's nothing here for me in this city." I said coldly.

His eyes widened before he looked to the ground. I could tell he was feeling stupid for ever caring about me in the first place. After all, I had warned him when we first met. I explained that I don't stay in one place long and that everything was always temporary. I bit my lower lip. Maybe I had made him think I had changed. I shook my head slightly. No, this wasn't my fault. Suddenly my gaze snapped back up to Josh as he let out a pained sigh.

"I'm the one who's sorry. I guess I misunderstood. I thought you felt something for me, like I once felt for you." He stated, harshly putting emphasis on "felt".

I gave him a sad smile. He didn't return my smile though and his lips stayed in a firm line.

"I won't ever forget you Josh." I said softly and he tensed before turning his back to me.

I sighed and turned away as well. I had a train to catch. As I walked away I couldn't help but sneak a glance. I looked over my shoulder to see him sitting on the grassy hill overlooking the city. He held his head in his hands. I broke yet another one. I felt a pang in my chest knowing I was awful for the disconnection I felt. I was beginning to think I'd never understand their heartbreak. After all, I had never loved before or let myself be broken by anyone else. I had no interest in love. It didn't really work well with my whole skill set that played into my dangerous job.

I boarded the train just in time and found an empty car. I threw my bag down beside me and sat so that I could watch out the window. The train began to come to life and I let out a breath of relief. I reflected on everything I'd miss in the city and out of respect I glanced back in its direction.

"Thank you and goodbye." I whispered under my breath.

Just then I realized how tired I was. I laid down and rested my head on my backpack. It was a great pillow seeing as it was filled with the only things I owned, two outfits, a photo of my parents and I, plus some cash. I seriously needed to pick up a job sooner or later. I closed my eyes and drifted into a light sleep.

"Miss?" I heard a man say as he shook me awake.

"Mmm sorry?" I blinked while sitting up.

"Are you Kaitlyn Forger?" He asked with a slight smile.

I immediately woke up. He knew my alias. How could I have been recognized? Unless he was a possible employer. I opened my mouth to speak but he stuck his hand out for me to shake.

"Pleasure to finally meet you. I'm Hugh. I've set you up with work a few times before." He explained introducing himself.

"Ah I see. It's a pleasure." I said, offering him a smile and gesturing for him to sit beside me.

"I must say I'm surprised by how young you are." He said, catching me off guard.

I just cleared my throat and sat a bit taller.

"How did you find me Hugh?" I asked the stranger, narrowing my eyes.

"Been tracking the way you move. I wanted to offer you this job in person this time. After all, for what the client is willing to pay, it's more secure this way." He glanced around then turned back to me eager to hear what I had to say.

"And what type of job would this be?" I asked the corner of my lips pulling upwards as he chuckled.

"It's your specialty not to worry. Theft. The client wants nothing but the best to retrieve a stolen family heirloom back from a rival. So what do you say, miss shadow?" He smiled down at me and I pretended to think for a minute.

"I'm in, of course. After all, I'm the best candidate for the job. What's the payout?" I questioned.

My eyes widened in shock as he whispered the amount in my ear. I bit my lip. If someone was paying that much, it meant this was a really dangerous job to take. High risk for a high reward. I grinned with determination. This was sure to be fun.

"Alright. Give me the intel I need. I'll get started right away." I spoke with confidence.

The man pulled a folder out of his jacket and handed it to me. He stood up and gave me a slight bow.

"Good luck queen of shadows. I'll be in contact." He then turned and swiftly left.

I rolled my eyes. I honestly hated that name I had picked up a year or two ago. I knew I was good at my job. Being able to steal with no trace was my specialty. Being able to disappear as well, but oh well. It wasn't up to me to become famous or not. I just hope I inspire the right people.