“Certainly,” Judge Merrion replied.

“Proceed.” And I understood that the judge was going to let them build the whole thing, brick by brick, before he let it fall on them — which was exactly how I would have done it myself.

Chapter 9 — Lie Number One

Blanche took the stand first, in cream silk and a sorrowful expression practiced in mirrors.

“She leaves the stove on.

She forgets appointments.