THE CALM BEFORE THE STORM

Caroline's POV:

"Here you go," I told Liam half grudgingly and handed over the handkerchief that wrapped the jewelry. I thought if I put it in a handkerchief it would have a touch of mystery, like I was actually handing something stolen. So I looked around and kept whispering, "I just hope this is your first and only attempt to rob the palace. I won't condone this kind of behavior."

Liam opened the handkerchief and looked at the brooch. His eyes gleamed at the gem's opulence. He smiled at me and said, "Thank you so much, Olivia. You saved my ass, and I'm sure this brooch will be of great value to the cause."

I crossed my arms in a disdainful tone and told him, "Huh, I hope this is worth it, because I don't like the fact that you're joining this cause at all." I said 'cause' with as much contempt and suspicion as I could.

After that, I couldn't help but ask, "So what happens now?" I was too curious to pretend to not want to know anything.

Liam thoug