Chapter 7
Convincing Carter that Cedar Hills Mall has been closed for more than a decade takes longer than I think it should. At one point, Malcolm asks:
“Are you certain you didn’t buy the ring at River Hills Mall in Mankato?”
“No,” Carter says, his words slow and sarcastic. “I bought it at Cedar Hills Mall in Cedar Hills.”
And I have to put a hand on Malcolm’s arm to keep him from launching himself at Carter.
We talk in circles, show him the evidence on the internet. In the end, I suspect he still doesn’t believe us. He levels a stare that suggests we’re playing an elaborate practical joke on him.
None of us can explain how Carter bought that engagement ring, assuming he’s telling the truth. He might be lying, but every time the demon rattles the container against the sink, the col
