“We have to look at the official filings, Mrs. Sullivan,” Ms. Vance said.

She set the yellow document on the rolling bedside table, right next to a plastic cup of lukewarm water.

“An emergency hearing is being scheduled for tomorrow morning at the Polk County courthouse.”

“Tomorrow?” Leo asked, his face turning pale.

“Until then, the child remains under hospital custody,” Ms. Vance said. “You may stay with him, but you are not permitted to discharge him or remove him from the premises.”

She picked up her bag and tucked the clipboard inside.

“A deputy will be stationed near the pediatric ward exit to ensure compliance.”

She walked toward the door, her heavy soles squeaking on the linoleum.

“I will see you in court tomorrow at nine,” she said.

The heavy wooden door clicked shut behind her.

The silence in the room was deafening, broken only by the steady beep of Sam’s heart monitor.

Leo stood frozen in the middle of the room.

His knuckles were white, pressed hard against the edge of the rolling table.

“She planned this,” he whispered.