“Thank you. That means a lot,” I reply honestly. “I take my client’s trust seriously, while ensuring that Everlife’s interests are protected. Integrity on all sides is what allows us, as an industry, to thrive.”

Damn, I should write that down for my next commercial with Amy. Though maybe I won’t have to hustle for more clients if Frederick stays true to his word and sends some corporate accounts my way.

Frederick beams, his smile a little sloppy but pure. “Well said.” The compliment comes with a pointed finger to my chest. “You’re a good man. Exactly what Everlife needs.”

I’d be floating on cloud nine, except that Frederick follows up the lovey-dovey fest with a hiccup that he doesn’t quite contain. Ignoring it, he leans in to whisper on scotch-scented breath, “Keep on top of the sheriff and that coroner out here. Make sure there are no shortcuts taken, because I’m sure this wasn’t the last we’ve heard of Yvette Horne. She’s a conniving one.”

“Sure. Will do.” I’m more than happy to stay on top of Zoey, and behind her, and beneath her, and any other position she’d like to try.

As for Sheriff Barnes, I will follow up to make sure he investigates further because I think Frederick is right. Yvette Horne methodically poisoned her husband for the money, and I don’t think she’s going to take a judge’s ruling as the final say on funds she feels entitled to.

Mason opens the back door for Frederick, making sure he’s in the car and buckled up before he shuts the door. “Drive safe,” I tell him, and he laughs.

“Always do.”

Finally free, I message for a ride and then text Zoey again.

Hey! I’m coming back out to see you. Should I meet you at work or home?

I don’t wait for a response, figuring I can check it when I get closer to her. Not while driving, of course, because texting while driving leads to 1.6 million car crashes each year and I would never be that irresponsible, but while pulled over safely.

The Uber driver drops me off to my office, and I don’t even go inside. I move from the Uber straight to my own car, hurrying as quickly as I can to get back to Zoey.

I buckle up, check my mirrors and surroundings the way I always do, and make the drive to Williamson County for the second time in a row today. I head to the morgue first, seeing as it’s late afternoon and Zoey’s a bit of a workaholic.

She’s probably elbows deep in the belly of a fresh body, with their guts being weighed on scales as she talks to the nonresponsive person about their family.

Or the weather.

Or last week’s Survivor episode.