“Eleanor told the hospital board I abandoned my home,” I said.

“Eleanor Vance doesn’t run emergency admissions,” Brenda said, stepping closer and lowering her voice.

“Labor could start any day now, Vivian.

You fill out this application, sign the bottom, and keep it in your coat.”

I smoothed the crease of the blue paper against the laundry table.

“Julian froze my bank cards three weeks ago.”

“I know what he did,” Brenda said gently.

“Which is why you’re going to let me sign the nursing supervisor’s line on this county form right now.”