Chapter 11

The Polaroid tucked in the frame on Arthur's desk showed two young women with radiant, carefree smiles. One of them bore a subtle resemblance to Arthur, while the other seemed to combine features from Stella and the receptionist. "That must be Arthur's loved one and a relative," Max and Stella thought simultaneously. "Take a seat," Arthur said. A faint trace of alcohol still lingered on him, as if he'd just come from a work event. He lowered himself onto the couch, his brow creased. "If you're ready to join us, head downstairs and complete the paperwork with the receptionist. After that, someone will guide you through the onboarding process. Your salary will be set according to the probation period. If that sounds good to you, you can sign the contract." For the past three years, whenever Arthur came across someone who even vaguely reminded him of Cindy, he made sure to keep them close. He never laid a hand on these women. The priest at Southcrest Church had advised him that by s