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“But you aren’t a forensic anthropologist?”

“I am not. I’m a consultant. I’m also the daughter of a taxidermist, and I spent a lot of time in Tucson with a mentor, learning about bones. My background is unusual.”

“How does that work?”

I smiled. “My mentor, Dr. Fulgi, is well known throughout the … well, the world. Because of my time with her and her recommendations, lots of people want to hear my conclusions.”

“Interesting.”

I nodded. I was used to people doubting me, and I didn’t spend time defending myself. If someone needed me, the proof would be in the pudding. I’d already proved myself plenty of times.

I said, “May I ask if you know if there’s any ID on the skeleton found out in The Wild this morning?”

“Not yet, but it’s been transported up to Tucson.” He paused. “Calloway told me to give you full access to anything I hear.”

I was happy about that. “Have you heard anything else?”

“Only that the scene has been cleared.”

There was something else in his tone. I asked, “You didn’t get to take a look?”

“I was not called until afterwards.”

“Calloway’s good. Maybe it was a simple oversight. Talk to him.”

“I did.”

“Good. How long have you been here, Chief?” I asked. “Not only did I have no idea that Virgie was the city manager, but I also didn’t know about these changes. Maybe Calloway was catching up too.”

“Today is my twelfth day on the job. Griffen’s eighth.”

“Okay. People are going to be happy you’re here, but it might take a little time. How do you feel about snakes and tarantulas?”

A hint of a smile played at his serious frown. “I’d rather not meet either, but I’m prepared if I do. And Steve and Caleb and their families aren’t thrilled.”

“They’ll get over it.” Though I wondered if they would. Jobs were hard to come by around here. “Thanks for taking my statement.”

“We’ll see if we can find out anything about the man who assaulted you.”

I looked at the bandaged finger. “I’ll be all right.”

He nodded. “I see that.”

Verro seemed like a fine officer of the law, probably better than Black Vulture had ever seen, but I wasn’t ready to share everything with him. I had another place I wanted to visit, and taking the new police chief with me might not be a bad idea. Except I felt like I might be betraying Trisha if I asked him to join me at her boyfriend’s trailer.

“Would you mind calling or texting me if you hear anything more?” I asked as I stood.

“How about a deal?”

“Okay?”

“You do the same. You call me if you hear something more. I’m not sure I’ll be first on anyone’s list yet. If you’d give me the consideration, I’d appreciate it, and I’d reciprocate.”

“Done.”

We shook again before I was on my way.

CHAPTER