Summary

Stéphane slides the glass case open, takes the flintlock pistol, and puts it in his backpack. The couple hustle out of the museum, not thinking about whether or not their behavior will attract attention. At home, he buffs the pistol with lemon juice, brightening it and making it shine. Reflecting on the theft, Anne-Catherine and Stéphane realize their actions were closer to a hit-and-run, a completely uncalculated event. They made no attempt to disguise themselves or move subtly. The couple feared the police would track them down, and discussed getting rid of the pistol, but ultimately decide against it. Slowly, as the police do nothing, the duo begins to feel pride and even pleasure in what they have done.

Stéphane experiences an emotional high after taking the gun, and keeps it on his bedside table, even occasionally feeling compelled to...