Chapter 10 - The Hidden Camera
The next afternoon, Arthur strategically delayed his route.
He drove a little slower, making sure all the other kids were dropped off first.
Finally, it was just him and Maya on the bus.
He parked a block away from her house, out of sight of the porch.
"Maya, listen to me very carefully," Arthur said loudly, ensuring the camera microphone picked it up.
Maya looked up, startled by his firm tone.
"My friend is a retired detective, and he wants to help you," Arthur continued.
"No, no, he'll kill us!" Maya cried out, shrinking into her seat.
"Maya, I need you to say on camera what he is doing to you," Arthur urged.
"I can't!" she sobbed hysterically.
"If you don't, he will never stop," Arthur pushed gently.
Maya looked at the camera mounted above the rearview mirror.
Tears streamed down her bruised cheeks.
"He hurts me at night," she whispered, her voice trembling.
"He forces you?" Arthur asked, making sure the context was clear.
"Yes," she cried.
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"And he makes me take those pills so mom won't find out."
Arthur closed his eyes, his heart breaking into a million pieces.
