It Started With a Heist

Chapter 18

EMMA

The more we planned, the more I realized how foolish and impulsive I had been. Walking in without a solid plan, not knowing what to expect, was reckless. I knew I was lucky to have made it out alive.

Whenever I pulled an insanely brazen move during a con or heist, Eric used to say I was like a cat with nine lives. Now, I couldn't help but wonder how many of those lives I had left. Probably not many.

Declan's murder and Eric's close call to getting arrested had impacted me more than I wanted to admit. Maybe I should have listened to Eric and taken some time away from New York to clear my head, instead of risking ending up in prison or worse.

But this time, I was feeling optimistic. We had planned everything to the T, and Eric had already hacked into the system using a phishing email that mimicked their IT department's communications perfectly.

And I was confident we would find something in Vitale's office, either in his safe or on his computer, which Eric would hack while I cracked the safe.

With everything in place, we were ready to meet the real estate agent again, pretending to be a wealthy couple searching for their dream home.

Vitale was still overseas on his business trip, but he was scheduled to return to the States in just two days. We were fortunate that Mr. Davis was able to fit us into his schedule before Vitale's return.

And now, Eric and I walked together toward the conference room where Mr. Davis was waiting for us. Eric looked sharp in a designer suit, and I was dressed in an expensive jumpsuit. Both in disguise, Eric wore a black wig and big glasses, while I wore Clara's long, blonde wig again. Eric also carried a sleek briefcase with everything we needed for our plan.

As we approached the conference room, Eric and I exchanged a knowing glance before walking in. Mr. Davis greeted us with a huge smile and gave me a small hug. "Clara! It's great to see you again," he said, then shook Eric's hand. "And Mr. Carrington, I'm glad you could join us."

Eric, looking unimpressed, flashed him a quick smile before checking his watch. "Yes, but I'm short on time. Shall we get started?"

Mr. Davis looked like someone had popped his balloon for a moment, but he quickly collected himself and smiled. "Of course, of course." He pulled out a chair for me, and we all sat down around the table.

"I've picked out some of our best properties for you to look at today," Mr. Davis said as he started the slideshow. We pretended to be interested as he showed us luxurious homes, each more extravagant than the last.

Pointing to a photo of a penthouse with a stunning view, Mr. Davis said, "This penthouse has amazing views of Central Park and a rooftop infinity pool. It's the epitome of luxury living."

Eric looked unamused. "It's nice. But does it come with a wine cellar and a private bowling alley? We need something that stands out. Something...unique."

I had to hold back a laugh as I watched Mr. Davis turn pale for what seemed like the hundredth time today.

Mr. Davis cleared his throat. "Ah, well, we can certainly discuss customizations. Many of our properties can be tailored to meet your exact specifications."

Eric and I shared a sly smile. And as Davis continued with his slideshow, pointing out a luxurious estate, I interrupted him again. "Oh, does this one come with a helipad? We can't be expected to deal with city traffic, you know."

Davis' eyes lit up. "Yes, it does. And it also includes a private cinema and a heated driveway for those chilly winter months."

I looked at Eric, who nodded approvingly, playing his part with a straight face. "Perfect. But before we proceed, I need to, uh, excuse myself for a moment. Nature calls, and when it does, it's like a relentless creditor. You understand."