Richard can’t freeze a court order, and he can’t stop the hospital from getting the transfer.”

I sank into the heavy leather chair.

The tight knot in my jaw started to ease.

We could get around his blockade.

We could pay for the surgery.

“The ex parte petition is ready,” Claire said.

She pushed a thick pile of printed pages across the glass.

“The hearing is set for nine a.m. in Family Court.