Chapter Four

Harry arrives at his office to find the anxious client from earlier, “Monica,” waiting. As they talk, Monica clarifies that her husband hasn’t vanished mysteriously so much as abruptly left three days ago after losing his job and becoming interested in real magic and tarot. She seeks Harry specifically because she fears his interest in the occult may be relevant and worries police will dismiss it as abandonment.

Harry presses for details. Monica, initially withholding names, eventually trusts him and identifies her husband as Victor Sells, formerly of SilverCo. She mentions a lake house in Lake Providence as a possible destination, notes Victor’s estrangement from family, and few close friends after the firing. Harry outlines his fees; Monica pays a $500 cash retainer and provides a photo, a phone number, and an item she found among Victor’s things.

Harry examines the item: a dried scorpion amulet on a leather cord. He recognizes its grim symbolism and the kinds of petty, mean spells such a talisman might focus, though it is not inherently evil. Considering Victor’s job loss and new obsession, Harry theorizes Victor might have secluded himself to pursue darker practices, but he also allows that it could be a mere curiosity.

After Monica leaves, Harry confirms the cash, reviews the photo and number, and evaluates the scorpion for magic. A brief startle aside, he senses no enchantment on the talisman, stows it away, and begins routine checks with hospitals and morgues while planning next steps for the search and his pressing financial obligations.