Jessie said nothing, though her internal alert system was going off. The idea that this guy didnt know any better when it came to preserving a crime scene was laughable. She found herself instantly suspicious of him.

Mr. Otis, Karen said, now recovered. You own a movie studio that has made multiple police thrillers. Have you never watched one of them? Are you seriously telling us that you didnt realize that disturbing a crime scene was a problem?

No, detective, he replied, his voice warm as honey. Im telling you that I freaked out. Im embarrassed about it. I regret it. Unfortunately, it seems that its too late to do anything about it. Ive created many things in my career but a time machine is not yet among them.

We have photos, Purcell volunteered, suddenly much less combative now that he was in the presence of Otis. The coroner will have a preliminary report later today. CSU checked for prints and DNA. Were talking to Mr. Otiss security team about pulling camera footage. Despite the regrettable way this started, I think weve got a lot to work with.

There you go, Otis said enthusiastically. Making the most of a situation I screwed up. I wish I could say it was the first time. Anyway, as you might imagine, Ive got a full day, so Im going to leave you in Matildas capable hands.

Mr. Otis, Jessie said as he headed toward the mahogany bedroom doors, well need to interview you.

Of course, he said, not stopping or turning around. I dont know much but talk to Nancy and shell put you on my schedule. Until then, the best of luck to you.

He was gone before Jessie could say anything else. She was tempted to chase after him and force him to answer her questions right now. But getting as much detail as possible about the particulars of the crime seemed like a higher priority. She sighed.

Whos Nancy? Karen asked.

Nancy Salter, shes the estate manager, Matilda said. She runs the day-to-day operations here. She also coordinates Jaspers schedule, in conjunction with Rune, of course, when hes working from home.

Whos Rune? Jessie asked.

Rune Barbato is Jaspers executive assistant. Hes in charge of Jaspers day-to-day when hes off estate. But on estate days like today, he defers to Nancy.

Sounds complicated, Jessie noted.

Not once you get used to it, Matilda insisted. Ill make sure to reach out to Nancy to have her pencil you in for some talk time with Jasper.

Jessie was tempted to ask if talk time was a Jasper Otis invention but felt herself slipping down the rabbit hole and changed tacks.

Who examined the body? she asked Purcell.

Len Fustos, he said. He was escorting her out to the van. I think they were getting ready to head out to the morgue.