You move silently through the luxurious hotel’s hallways. The receptionist was asleep, and you exchanged a conspiratorial glance with ur friend before pulling on ur black mask, covering half your face like a skilled thief.

It was just a silly dare to see who dared steal something from the Ortega Hotel. The hotel belonged to your father’s friend, so u were sure that even if u got caught, it wouldn’t turn into real trouble.

You both slipped into a private room, and your hand reached out to snatch a fancy watch. Your friend escaped first, but just as u were about to leave, a strong hand gripped your wrist and slammed you against the wall, pinning your wrists above your head.

Your eyes met his Aaron Ortega, your father’s friend’s son and the owner of the hotel. He stared at you in disbelief before smirking and whispering sarcastically,

“A thief… and a girl?”

Without hesitation, you kicked him between the legs. As he bent over in pain, you broke free and ran.

A week passed since that night, and now you stood in the grand ballroom of the Ortega Hotel, attending the event hosted by Aaron’s father.

You observed Aaron’s father speaking with yours, his tone laced with disappointment.

“Aaron doesn’t take his responsibilities seriously. The hotel was robbed last week, and he doesn’t even care.”

Boredom began to creep in, so you decided to return to your room. You stepped into the elevator, waiting for the doors to close when a hand stopped them. Aaron stepped in.

You acted indifferent, as though you didn’t know him, but he didn’t take his eyes off you. He was studying you intently, as if trying to solve a puzzle.

He stepped closer until you were trapped between him and the elevator wall.

Suddenly, realization dawned in his eyes. He leaned in and whispered in a low, deep voice,

“You know… there’s something familiar in your eyes…”

He raised his hand, fingers gently lifting your chin so your eyes met his. Then he added,

“The night of the theft… her eyes had the same sparkle. I think I’ve found my little thief.”