But They Have No Idea What Will Happen - Tumblr Posts

Snippet #7

Tw: none

“Is something the matter? You normally don’t like to stick around after a heist.”

The person across the rooftop looked up from their trance, focusing of center of attention back on their opponent. “Yeah, fine. Let’s just get this over with.”

Hero dropped their fighting stance in an instant. “Thief, that isn’t like you either. What’s going on?” They stepped a little closer, careful not to invade their personal space, but also careful not to be too far away. They knew the thief would prefer the distance, but they needed to make sure they weren’t too distanced either. They’d bolt the first chance they could get.

“Nothing,” The other bit out. “Nothing at all. Look, just- just stop asking questions, all right? I’ll give you the van Gogh back just-” They trailed off, and Hero found themselves wondering what they were thinking about yet again. It must have been something important.

“I was told to retrieve a Monet, but I’ll take the van Gogh too, if you’re offering.”

“Fine. Take them both. I don’t need them anyway,” The thief slung a long tube from off their back and held it out in front of them. “Give me an hour to retrieve the Monet and come back. You know what? Forget it, I’ll just return the painting myself. I can leave it-” They trailed off, lost in their little world again.

Well, that was concerning. Thief, willing to give up a two paintings, both of which were valued at several thousands, if not millions? Just to get Hero to stop talking? It must be serious. They needed to know what was happening to them. Now.

“Thief,” Hero took two steps forward. “Thief, talk to me, please.” Another step. They were at arm’s reach now. “I can help you, but only if you let me. Let me help you. Please.”

The thief tensed but didn’t bolt, still holding the painting out expectantly. Their eyes shone, screaming worry, fear, but most importantly, trust.

“I’m- I’m not supposed to tell you anything,” They dropped the tube into Hero’s hands and backed away. “But come the museum roof in an hour and I’ll tell you everything.”