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With a deep breath, she clicked on it and began to read through the contents. The report was comprehensive, detailing every single thing.

Molly Stewart, Laura wasn't her real name. She had changed her identity several times over the past few years. There were inconsistencies in her history, gaps that didn’t add up. And then, there was the criminal record – minor offenses, but enough to raise red flags. Petty theft, a few charges of fraud, and a restraining order filed against her by a former employer. It painted a picture of someone who was far from trustworthy.

The background report on Laura—or rather, Molly—painted a grim picture. Her relationship history was tumultuous at best. Two exes, one of whom was dead under suspicious circumstances, and the other had left the country abruptly, leaving no forwarding address or contact details. The mere mention of a deceased ex sent a shiver down Penelope’s spine.

Molly also had a seven-year-old sister who had been missing for years now. The