Helen located a temporary family placement with Mrs.

Alvarez’s sister, a licensed foster caregiver named June, who could receive Ashley after discharge if no family member was found.

June arrived with clean pajamas, a storybook, and a promise not to replace anyone.

“I’m just a safe grown-up who can make dinner and listen,” she told Ashley.

Ashley considered that.

“Can Buddy have dinner too?”

“He can sit at the table.”

The child smiled for the first time since Natalie met her.