chapter 10

The Heist

Nora and I arrived at the library. "What's the emergency?" Nora asked.

Josh's eyes sparkled. "Since we know Sattorn's behind the vandalism, let's get payback."

Nicole grinned. "I love it. They won't know what hit them."

Isaac asked, "What's the plan?"

Josh explained, "Sattorn has a 'magic stick' they think gives them power. We'll steal it."

Emily hesitated. "Isn't stealing wrong?"

Josh countered, "Not when it's payback."

Emily nodded. "Okay, great."

Josh outlined the team: Liam, Isaac, Emily, Amy, Nora, and himself.

That night, we gathered at school. Josh brought his car.

"Two people will need to stay in the boot," Josh said.

Nora dragged me aside. "You should get in with one of the boys."

I asked Liam, "Will you sit with me?"

Liam smiled. "I'd love to."

Inside the boot, Liam whispered, "You've changed many things since arriving."

I replied, "I did?"

Liam's lips brushed mine. "You did."

Our kiss deepened, hands exploring.

"Liam..." I whispered.

Suddenly, the car stopped.

"Guess we'll continue later," I said, smiling.

We joined the others at the locked gate.

Emily picked the lock with a hairpin.

"Teach me your ways, Emily," I said.

Inside, Linda unlocked the shelf.

Isaac, Emily, and Josh covered the gate.

Josh and Nora guarded the entrance.

Liam and I retrieved the stick.

Simon and Alex approached.

"Hand over the stick," Simon demanded.

I broke it. "Your magic stick is gone."

Alex sneered. "We'll still beat you. You have no midfielder."

Back at school, Chloe asked, "Did you get the stick?"

Josh replied, "Amy broke it."

Joshua declared, "We need a midfielder. We can't let Sattorn win."

"We will find one," we vowed.

TO BE CONTINUED.