Secrets of the Crown Assassins

09

PHOENIX

I ran through the alley, the night chill whipping my face, my bag bouncing against my back in a steady rhythm. Brandon and Lucas were right behind while Tressa was somewhere far above, lagging back and being the distraction to lead the guards away. After rounding a corner I slowed my pace and turned a victorious smile to the sky.

My sister botched our last plan, but that sure as hell didn't stop me from getting my money. I formulated another heist yesterday night and managed to gather everyone to strike again by sunset. The bank increased their security and tried switching up a few protocols, but they weren't expecting another attempt this soon. The guards were poorly trained in the new protocols and were easy to fool.

Stopping in front of a door, I pulled out my keys and unlocked it. The three of us stepped inside and climbed the numerous steps to reach the top floor. I unlocked the second door and walked in, tapping all of the switches.

The lights flickered on to reveal a sprawling penthouse. The sleek couches and furniture radiated power. It wasn't quite my taste, but the penthouse was located high enough to overlook the city. I neared the window and looked down at the numerous lights. People crawled around on the ground, insignificant ants crawling through the streets, scouring for something of value but coming up empty.

But I wouldn't be insignificant. I wouldn't walk around and beg for something to fall into my hands. When I want something, I take it. And I want it all.

"We did it, baby!" Brandon howled as he set a bag down on the table dove his hands into piles of cash.

"Stop shattering my ears," Lucas winced.

"Oh, come on my man, you gotta appreciate our victory. Just look at the stacks we have," Brandon said, motioning to the cash.

Lucas offered a small smile though his shoulders were tense. I narrowed my eyes. He was normally paranoid, but now he was acting strange. Too tense.

Lucas met my eyes and mumbled, "Did you get the glitters?"

I broke my stare to set my own bag down and pull them out. "Of course."

I set the boxes on the table and opened the carefully secured diamonds.

"How much they worth?" Brandon asked as he marveled at them.

"100k," I answered. "Each."

Brandon let out a low whistle. "We owe ourselves a party. Where you got the beer?"

"I only have vodka," I responded as Brandon searched the kitchen cabinets. "Beer's for losers."

Brandon held his hands up. "Don't gotta insult me like that. Why don't ya use that big head of yours and help me find somma that vodka?"

I looked over at Lucas who was still just standing by the table. "I'm not in the mood. Why don't you ask Lucas?"

Lucas hesitated.

I inspected him. "Don't wanna help your friend?"

Lucas shrugged, though the gesture looked strange due to his tense shoulders. "I don't like vodka very much."

I studied their clothing. Both he and Brandon were always wearing full sleeves.

In the kitchen, Brandon stopped his search and was watching his friend. He either sensed Lucas's strange behavior or was watching my reaction because was plotting with Lucas. I was betting on the latter.

Carefully, I closed the boxes and pocketed them again.

"You consumed vodka like a snake before," I pointed out.