"Of course, it's legitimate. We have proper credentials. My certificate is valid."
This guy was one of Sanford's buddies. He was lazy and just hanging around the clinic.
Hearing his assurance, I nodded. Just as he was about to relax, I turned and called the funeral home.
"We need someone for a cremation here."
Sanford rushed to stop me but, seeing my determination, quietly sent a message on his phone.
The funeral home workers arrived quickly, eager not to miss the business.
I pretended to arrange everything for my best friend.
"She's my best friend. Don't spare any expense. Do everything at the highest standard. Did you bring the shroud?"
I glanced at Sanford.
"She's been dead for hours. If we don't take her to the funeral home soon, the body might spoil. How will I explain to her family then?"
The funeral home workers were thrilled to get such a big job and moved to change Alice's clothes.
Sanford hurriedly stopped them.
"Lacey, let Alice's family handle this. It's not right for you to do it."
I slapped him again.
"Alice's been staying at my place. Her family lives far away. If we wait for her mother, she'll start to decompose. Let me handle it."