Sensing the tide turning, Arthur Sterling leapt up before Julian could ask a single question.

“Objection, Your Honor!” he barked, his face flushed. “Mrs. Mercer is the petitioner in a divorce proceeding, not a qualified medical expert. Any attempt she makes to analyze her own alleged injuries is purely anecdotal and highly prejudicial!”

I didn’t look at Sterling. I turned my gaze up to the judge.

“Objection to my qualifications, Your Honor?” I asked, cool and even. “I’m a board-certified forensic pathologist. I hold degrees from Johns Hopkins and completed my residency at the state medical examiner’s office.

I’ve provided expert testimony in over forty felony convictions in this very state. If opposing counsel wishes to challenge my credentials, let’s do so.

Otherwise, let me testify.”