I close my eyes, calming the butterflies stirring in my belly. “But I’m also terrified. I keep running through disaster scenarios, like what if someone recognizes me as Ella?” I open my eyes. “If it came out that I faked my death, it would be a scandal—it would probably put me back on the Index. My reunion with my parents would make us more famous—they’d spin it as foul play or say I had amnesia from the explosion. Either that or they’d pin the explosion on me and I’d go to jail. After all, they couldn’t make me Unrankable. I already am…”

“Nobody will recognize you. You look totally different. If anything, you may seem familiar, but I believe in your abilities.” She places her hand over mine. “You’re a thief, and you can make people believe anything you want. You’re meant for this.”

“I hope you’re right…” Sinking into the couch, I swirl the tea in the bottom of my cup. “Garrett wants me to play a major role in this heist—and I want to do it—but my biggest fear is exposing him and Keystone. That would be unforgivable.”

“Whitney and Jeff wouldn’t send you if they thought it was risky.” She refills my tea. “Besides, you have something nobody else has—your instincts. Trust them.”

“I’m trying to, but sometimes I still don’t think they’re right. Garrett throws me off. I can’t read him.” I shake my head.

“People change. Sometimes a first impression deserves a second chance.”

“But he changes every five minutes. It’s like he’s purposely trying to scramble my brain.”

She laughs. “Garrett is a challenge. But it’s good he keeps you on your toes. It keeps you sharp.”

Standing, she crosses the room and rummages through a closet. “Now for the real reason I asked you over. I have a gift for you.”

Sitting next to me, she hands me a box wrapped in yellow paper, tied with twine that secures a white daisy. “It’s your first heist—you’re officially a thief—and Crystal and I thought you should look the part.”

I slide an envelope out from underneath the daisy, running my fingers over the buttery stock. Turning the envelope over, I find it’s stamped closed with the wax impression of an upside-down umbrella. Breaking the seal, I pull out a square note card.

Hi friend!

Look how far you’ve come! I’m so proud of you. You’re about to embark on an exciting adventure, and you’re totally going to own it, but please know that I’m here for you no matter what. It gets intense out there sometimes, and you’re always welcome at my door. My home is yours. You can find me if you need me. Just follow the signs.

Now, knock ’em dead!

Sugar kisses,

Crystal

I smile. “Thank you for this.”