when she saw the NO REENTRY sign on the door. Damn. That information had been omitted. She made her way to the floor below Marcus’s and was able to enter the corridor. She would have to take the lift up, but she had to avoid the camera. Or change her disguise again. Thinking quickly, she pulled out the scarf, wrapped it around her head like a hijab, untucked her blouse, and made her way to the lift. The lift dinged when it reached Marcus’s floor. Carefully looking in each direction, she proceeded to Marcus’s flat. The hallway was very quiet except for the sound of soft classical music coming from one of the apartments. When she reached the door to Marcus’s flat, she rang the buzzer. If anyone answered, she would use the “I’m lost or wrong number” excuse.
A second attempt. Nothing. After picking the lock, she slipped in. Listening for any sounds, she moved quickly, placing listening devices in key locations. She entered the master bedroom suite and placed a bug on the back of the headboard. The door to the walk-in closet/dressing area was ajar, so she peeked in and spotted the jewelry safe. She snapped a few photos and tried to decide if she should open it. With a little patience and the right technology, any lock could be picked. She tapped her watch to access the listening equipment she had assigned to Marcus’s office. She could hear the two women chatting at the front desk.
“What do you suppose is going on with the doc?” one asked.
“What cha mean?” asked the other.
“You know. Him running in and out, that creepy kid who keeps coming around. And his moods. One minute he’s a snarky old bear, and the next he’s dancing on his tiptoes.”
“Well, you know that wife of ’is drives him crazy with all the money she spends!”
“Do tell!”
As much as Eileen wanted the dirty gossip, she needed to find out if he was still in his office. Then she heard the response.
“She’s out drinking bottles and bottles of champagne, buying diamonds like they’re candy, clothes, shoes. She’s really something. I overheard him say she was going to send him to the poorhouse!”
“Get out! Really?”
“Aye. She keeps Harrods in business! And I know she’s out spendin’ again today. He was talkin’ to her earlier. He told her he was going to the pub.”
That was all Eileen had to hear. She hoped the information was right and she had some time. With great speed, she pulled out her pick tool. Next to the number pad was a small plastic piece that covered a keyhole. The keyhole was a backup in case the safe’s battery ran out. Most people didn’t know this tidbit. She pried off the plastic cover and inserted her pick tool. One full turn to the right, and it opened.
She snapped photos of the contents. Lots of diamonds and gold. Lots. She immediately sent the photos to Avery, who would relay them to Charles.
After setting everything back into place, she slithered her way out the door and down the hall to the stairwell. The doors opened out, as required by law. Avoiding the cameras, she removed her latest disguise, down to her leotard and tights. She wrapped the shawl around her waist, making it look as if she were on her way to a yoga class.
Chapter 30
New York City
The three women exited the Acela train that had brought them from Washington to Penn Station. Annie could not help but comment on the difference between Union Station in D.C. and what she called “this poor excuse for a transportation hub.”
“It’s disgraceful. The original building was demolished in nineteen sixty-three, causing a big controversy with historical preservationists in New York.”
“It is rather shabby,” Myra commented. “And I know they have problems every day. But let’s not dwell on this hot mess. Let’s get to our hotel and lunch!”
Annie looked for a redcap to help with their luggage. She finally spotted what seemed to be the only one in sight and flagged him over. “Hello. Would you be so kind as to assist us with our luggage?”
The man beamed and pulled the dolly over to where they were standing. The train conductors had helped them off with their belongings. “I would be happy to. Are all these yours?” He pointed to the assortment of bags and suitcases.
“We like to travel light.” Everyone cackled at Annie’s remark.