The seconds ticked by as Val thought of what to do next. Desperation clung tightly, making the decision clear. What could be lost at this point other than dignity, and dignity wasn’t going to put food on the table or a roof over her head. Val was pretty sure the next lie she was about to tell wasn’t criminal. Besides, what was the worst they could do? Have security escort her out? If she was coming back to the morgue anytime soon it wouldn’t be under circumstances in which she’d have the capacity to really care about. “I think there might be some confusion. I’m Dr. Valentina Knight, a dentist. Oliver must have told both Gwen Carmondy and me about this job. Gwen is one of the best, but he thought I’d be better suited for this position.”

Val breathed hard as perspiration rolled down the back of her neck. Her face felt hot and she began to wonder if her lie was showing.

“I’m so sorry. I had no idea. Oliver only mentioned one person,” Betty stammered, then suddenly turned her attention to the phone and Val took the opportunity to try to steady her breathing.

“Yes, Candace. Is Dr. Blythe available to speak to a Valentina Knight?” When Betty responded, she lowered her voice, clearly sounding uncomfortable speaking in front of Val. “She’s here about the death investigator position. It seems Oliver recommended her.” There was a longer pause.

“I know that. But apparently Oliver spoke to her about it too.” Betty’s voice became still as she listened. Clearly, there was more discussion going on the other end of the line. She finally said, “Okay, I’ll send her back.”

“Dr. Knight, please come with me. I’ll introduce you to Dr. DeHaviland.”

“Dr. DeHaviland? Didn’t you mention a Dr. Blythe?”

“Dr. Blythe is the chief medical examiner and is in the middle of an autopsy right now. Dr. DeHaviland, the deputy medical examiner, is just finishing up and can talk to you.”

Betty led Val down a long corridor and into an office, saying nothing as they walked. Val was thankful for the silence. She wasn’t quite sure how she would have responded to any questions. The only thought on her mind was keeping this house of cards from crashing down on her.

“Please have a seat. I’ll tell Dr. DeHaviland you’re here. She should be right in.”

Val sat in the chair, heart in her throat, wondering how on earth she would pull this off. She needed to stay calm or this would just go from bad to worse.