The Missing Pendant

Detective Sarah examined the jewelry store's empty display case. No broken glass. No forced lock.

"The alarm never triggered," the owner insisted.

Sarah noticed something: wet footprints leading to the back door, though it hadn't rained. She followed them to the storage room.

There sat Marcus, the night janitor, holding the diamond pendant. Tears streamed down his face.

"My daughter needs surgery," he whispered. "I was desperate."

Sarah sighed, reaching for her handcuffs, then paused. She'd seen his job application—three years without missing a shift.

"This stays between us," she said quietly. "But you're confessing to the owner today."