“By the way, what about Farmer? What has he been up to?” Janina asked.
“That kid's been at home, and so has Damaris. They've been very quiet lately, mostly staying indoors. Probably lying low to avoid trouble.”
Janina remembered Damaris’s attitude that day downstairs at Meridian Tower, the complex emotions in her eyes. It seemed like she had something to say, but…
“How many people are in your detective agency?” Janina suddenly changed the subject.
Kenneth was caught off guard, wondering why Janina was suddenly so interested in his agency. It had nothing to do with their current conversation.
Still, he answered honestly. “Including me, there are three main members. Plus a few auxiliary ones.”
“What do you mean, ‘a few’?”
“It means when we’re too busy, we borrow people from other agencies. Don’t worry, they’re completely reliable. In our line of work, integrity is everything.”
The detective business wasn't exactly booming, and hiring too many people meant paying more salaries, which wasn't cost-effective.
That's why Kenneth had only taken on two apprentices.
He wasn't sure if it was good luck or a testament to his growing skill, but ever since he took Janina's first case, business at the agency had exploded. They were busy every day.
He sent his two apprentices to handle the other cases, but he always handled Janina's matters personally.
“I see. Keep an eye on Damaris and Farmer, too. Something’s not right with them.”
Once things calmed down, Janina planned to talk to Damaris.
She was certain Damaris knew something.
“No problem. I'll let you know as soon as I have any news.”
He paused, remembering the Madden case, and decided he should give Janina an update.
“By the way, my contacts abroad sent back some info. Madden's daily routine is normal, and his social circle is clean. He doesn't have many friends or any family. Nothing seems out of place.”
Essentially, there was no progress on the Madden front, which was why Kenneth had felt it wasn't necessary to mention it. But he brought it up anyway.
Janina lay back on the recliner, feeling drained. Her voice was weak and listless. “Okay, got it.”
After hanging up, Janina tried to rest, but her phone started buzzing nonstop with notifications.
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