He did not have an umbrella, and his expensive wool coat was quickly soaked.

He walked into the lobby with his head held high, his jaw set in a hard, familiar line.

Two of his family’s private security guards followed closely behind him.

Daniel stopped when he saw the federal agents and the paramedics surrounding my mother.

His eyes shifted from the gurney to me, then down to Lucas and Mason.

“What is the meaning of this?” Daniel demanded, his voice echoing off the marble floor.

“This hospital is Carter property,” Daniel said, looking at Dr. Aris.

“Not anymore, Mr. Carter,” Dr. Aris said, her voice calm and level.

“The state board has assumed temporary administration,” she stated.

“Your operating license is suspended effective immediately,” she added.

Daniel’s face flushed a deep, angry red.

“You cannot suspend my license based on rumors,” Daniel said.

He took a step toward me, his hand reaching out to grab Lucas’s shoulder.

“Lucas, Mason, come here,” Daniel commanded.

Lucas did not move; he stood his ground and pulled a small black digital recorder from his pocket.