"Target entered downtown Oak Street bookstore."
"Lingered in travel books section for forty-seven minutes."
"Bought a photography book and coffee. Read in the cafe area."
"No unusual contacts. Mood: calm, slightly happy."
...
The reports popped up on my phone, crisp and straightforward, detailing her perfectly normal path. The more innocent it seemed, the more guilt ate at me like ants.
A week later, I'd planned to tail her myself. But just as I geared up, the docks had an issue. A shipment got held by customs—I had to handle it personally.
I drove there, wondering where she'd go. By the time I sorted the mess, it was evening. In the car, I called Dmitri.
"What'd the madam do today?"
"She hit a downtown art supply store, bought charcoal pencils and a sketchbook," Dmitri said. "Then sat in a cafe for an hour, seemed like she was drawing."
"That's it?"
"She lingered outside a jewelry store for a while."
"Which one?"
"Lumiere Fine Jewelry on Walnut Street. Small place, handmade designs."
"What'd she buy?"
"Nothing," Dmitri continued. "Clerk said she eyed a necklace in pre-sale, available in a month. She stared a long time, then left."
"What kind?"
"I had a photo taken."
Seconds later, my phone pinged with an image.
It was a sleek, unique necklace—thin white gold chain with a small compass pendant. The compass looked antique with aged finish, but directions marked in colored gems.
"Clerk said it's the designer's limited edition, only ten made.Theme's 'Pathfinder.' She read the card forever, got down when told about the wait."
"Good. Keep on her."
"Will do."
I hung up and dialed another number.
"Get me Lumiere Fine Jewelry's owner. Tell him Morozov wants the 'Pathfinder' necklace reserved. I need the finished piece tonight."
"Boss, they said it takes—"
"Morozov doesn't wait." I cut in. "Price is no issue. But tonight, that necklace is mine."
"Yes, boss."
By ten p.m., a velvet jewelry box arrived. I opened it; "Pathfinder" gleamed softly under the light.
I stared at the compass directions—which one pointed to her heart's desire?
