Jesse Cobelo admired the opulence in the master bedroom. Oil paintings of sweeping landscapes adorned the walls under a two-tiered crystal chandelier. But the dresser contained the most interesting items. An Apple watch, iPad, and a jewelry box holding several pairs of pearl earrings and silver rings. Even a small handgun, tucked under some T-shirts. More than enough for this month’s rent.

          Smiling, Jesse swept the electronics and jewelry into his black backpack. With all her wealth, Karen Aronowitz wouldn’t even bat an eye at replacing the items.

            Planning to hunt for spoils in the adjacent bedroom, Jesse placed his gloved hand on the door handle. But he heard something downstairs. The creak of the front door opening. Then, muffled angry voices.

           Jesse froze. Karen had bragged on social media that they would be at Disney World for two full weeks. Why was she back now? 

           Cursing his bad luck, Jesse recalled the layout of the house. This door led to a mezzanine with a clear view down to the main entrance. That left the window.

            Jesse dashed across the bedroom. He looked down at the ground twelve feet below with no clear footholds and started breathing faster. The balaclava wasn’t helping. He unlocked the window and attempted to slide it up, but it was stuck. Shit.

            “You can’t make me!” shouted a high-pitched girlish voice coming up the stairs.