Gritting her teeth, Casey relented. “Fine, I'll give it to you."

Jimena's face lit up with glee, morphing once more, this time into a facade of gratitude. "Oh, you're too kind. Since it gathers dust in your possession, why not let me safeguard it for a while?"

A knot twisted in Casey's gut as she watched Jimena's delighted expression.

Jimena prodded impatiently, "Madam, the safe. Quickly now."

The treasures were ensconced within a secure glass cabinet, protected by iris scans and passwords.

Casey had inadvertently left it unlocked once before, allowing Jimena to sneak a peek and even try on the necklace.

The Glynn family's security was formidable. Without the special anti metal detection bag, removing the necklace undetected would be nearly impossible. And without Casey's cooperation, it would surely lead to their discovery. Otherwise, Jimena wouldn't have waited so long to make her move.

As Casey hesitated before the safe, Jimena suddenly grabbed her and forcefully pressed her face against the cabinet, demanding she open it with her iris verification.

“Enter the code," Jimena urged urgently. “Davey will return any minute, and we'll both be in hot water if he catches us."

Under Jimena's relentless pressure, Casey relented, opening the safe at last.

Before Casey could react, Jimena seized the opportunity, shoving her aside and snatching the priceless blue diamond necklace.

The radiant blue sapphire sparkled enticingly in the light, captivating Jimena's gaze. It was simply exquisite! At long last, it would be hers.

Casey made one last attempt to reason with Jimena. “It's best if you don't take it now. Deliver the embroidery first, then come back for it. That way, you won't have to return here. And if I manage to escape, you can find me in Ambrosia."

Casey was not refusing Jimena outright. Instead, she was suggesting a safer plan. The implication was clear. Retrieving the item later would allow Jimena to either flee with her family or vanish into hiding, significantly diminishing any associated risks.

However, Jimena, with a flicker of suspicion in her eyes, slipped the necklace into the folds of her clothing. “Madam, going back on your word isn't very nice. I promised to help you deliver it, and that's exactly what I intend to do. Make sure you have the money ready for when this necklace changes hands."

Casey's lips parted, but no words came out. In truth, if she did escape, the necklace, which belonged to Davey, held no value for her.

Not only was she prepared to pay Jimena, but she also had no intention of reclaiming the necklace. Yet, understanding Jimena's apprehension, she chose silence over explanation, fearing further words might only breed more misunderstanding.

Seeing the uncertainty flicker in Casey's eyes, Jimena stepped closer, fearing she'd renege. Jimena's voice was steady, yet there was an unmistakable edge of urgency. "You need to cover for me so I can leave now."

Confusion clouded Casey's face, but she nodded, ready to assist.

“Just tell me what to do."