A Nearly Normal Family

Adam’s interaction with My Sennevall continues to haunt him, as does Ulrika’s increased alcohol consumption. Nevertheless, he believes that tragedy brings people together. Ulrika confesses that she feels like a bad mother and sees Stella as a “daddy’s girl.” Adam’s attempt to comfort her does little to bridge their emotional gap. Ulrika reveals the impending custody hearing and the increased suspicion of Stella.

Adam reflects on Stella’s change from a patient, focused child to a teenager who struggles with impulse control and attention. He remembers Stella’s decision to stop attending church and her growing skepticism toward religion. Adam hoped that the confirmation camp might bring Stella back to the church and to him. Her decision to attend this camp surprised Adam but struck him as a potential turning point in her relationship with her family and her own journey of self-discovery.

In the courtroom, Adam’s faith in Stella’s innocence is challenged. The prosecutor presents a footprint found at the crime scene and traces of capsaicin (pepper spray) on the victim’s body. The prosecutor reveals that Stella’s hair, skin flakes, and clothing fibers were found in Christopher Olsen’s apartment; moreover, chat conversations between Stella and Christopher suggest a possible intimate relationship.