Charmed Theft

I reach out a hand, the bracelet within my grasp. The rumours say it’s charmed. Fingers hovering above, I hesitate, but the stones wink innocently.

Footsteps sound on the wooden terrace outside the window. Red velvet curtains flap in the breeze. Did someone see me?

The echo dies away, and I release my breath. The bracelet shimmers in the sunbeam. I snatch at it and yelp — a shock passed through me. Flexing my fingers, I circle the plinth.

It’s true then — a charm protects it. No wonder it’s displayed so brazenly. I circle the plinth, checking it from all angles.

The door handle eases down. I stifle a gasp as the door opens, a low creak giving it away.

I have to act now. Bracing myself, I reach out and grab the bracelet. This time I hold on. The sensation of sharp pins stabbing through to my shoulders makes me long to drop it, but I hang on. My nerves throb and pulse. I cry out loud and the door slams open.

A sturdy security guard charges forward with a yell. I back to the open window. As he nears, I jump forward and thrust the bracelet in the guard’s face. He screams and falls, pawing at his cheeks. Lesions redden and burst.

I blast through the window, clutching my prize, and run. I knew my wooden arm would come in useful some day.