I don’t like to do this in the rain. The rain muffles ordinary sounds, but once I’m committed there is just no stopping. I keep one eye on the couple in bed. The man is snoring softly, the woman moans occasionally in her sleep. I carefully open her jewelry box, and I’m rewarded with the diamond broach she wore at the ceremony. I remove the flashlight from my mouth and examine the other gems closely. Satisfied that they are all genuine, I quietly place them in my travel case.

Once my case is full, I carefully close the snaps. I take three steps to the side of the bed and look down at the sleeping couple. Helen looks so sweet when she’s asleep, but my brother — he drools.