The lawyers exchanged a brief, tight glance.

“Furthermore,” Victoria said, standing tall, “it gives us twenty-four hours to file a response before a temporary custody hearing is scheduled.”

“We have the right to enforce the immediate transfer of the child to the father’s custody,” the first lawyer said.

“If the father is present,” Victoria said. “Is Ryan Parker in this hospital?”

The silence in the room was absolute.

The only sound was the rapid, rhythmic beeping of my heart monitor.

“Is he?” Victoria demanded. “Because if he is not here to receive the child, the child remains in the care of the hospital.”

“Mr. Parker is on his way,” the lawyer said.

“Then until he arrives, you have no legal basis to move that baby,” Victoria said. “And if you attempt to touch my client without her consent, I will file federal kidnapping and assault charges against this hospital before the sun goes down.”

She pointed a finger at Dr. Harrison.

“I will name you personally, Richard,” she said. “And I will make sure the board knows exactly how much your cooperation cost.”