I walked briskly beside them, keeping my hand on Lily’s small shoulder.

“We need to run some blood work and get a pediatric evaluation,” the doctor on duty said.

“I am her mother, and I have legal custody,” I said, showing my federal credentials.

“I want a secure, private room.”

They led us to a room at the end of the pediatric wing.

The walls were painted with soft green trees and cartoon animals.

I sat on the edge of the bed as they transferred Lily to the mattress.

She woke up briefly, her blue eyes wide with sudden panic as she looked at the medical equipment.

“I’m here, Lily,” I whispered, leaning down so my face was close to hers.

“You are safe now.”

She reached out and grabbed my collar, her breathing slowing down.

A nurse gently wrapped a small blood pressure cuff around her arm.

My phone buzzed again in my hand.

It was Agent Carter, my team leader.

I stepped to the corner of the room, keeping my eyes on Lily.