"Put your hands where I can see 'em, Kid."

I turned around, slowly raising my arms above my head. "Is there a problem, Officer?"

"You tell me," the LAPD officer snapped. "The jewelry store clerk just saw a teenage girl matching your description walk out with a pair of diamond earrings."

I widened my eyes in innocent surprise at the middle aged cop, but my smug face reflected in his mirrored aviator sunglasses. "Well, were the earrings locked up? Sounds to me like that was the store's fault."

"Alright, Smart Alec," The cop glowered, "empty your pockets."

I nodded and thrust my hand in my front pocket. I pulled out the earrings and then threw them in the bushes.

The distraction worked. The cop dove for the jewelry as I made a break for it.

"I need backup!" I heard him shout into his radio as I tore off down the street.

My feet slapped against the cracked pavement. I suppressed a smile as the wind blew in my face. It was strange how even this close to capture I felt so free.

I looked behind me, where the officer was at least twenty yards away, puffing as he struggled to keep up. I waved at him, then slipped into an alley.

I took a couple turns and slowed my pace. There was no way he'd ever find me now. As I walked leisurely down the street I reached into my other pocket and pulled out the matching diamond necklace.

Oh, Rosie, you bad girl.

This might even please Mom.

I pictured the corners of Mom's thin lips lifting into a cruel smile.

"Good job, Rosie. You might just be useful after all."

My heart swelled with pride.

I pulled the hood of my sweatshirt over my head, covering my blonde hair. I let the ends--which were dyed hot pink--poke out a little. I liked the vibe they gave off, like I was untouchable, mysterious.

I turned onto my street, yawning. It had been a long day, and I was excited to show Mom the loot I had procured. My pockets were full of change and trinkets.

"Stop right there!"

I turned in surprise. The cop from earlier was there, surrounded by at least a dozen others.

"Wow," I whistled. "You brought out the whole squad for me? I'm flattered."

Five of the men charged me. I turned on my heel, but ran straight into the arms of an officer I hadn't noticed behind me.

"You're in a lot of trouble, Girl," she snarled.