I was desperate to know what the old freezer held.

That desperation made me restless and argumentative.

I called Bell twice before noon on Friday.

The second time he said, “Daniel, I understand the fear.

But your daughter is safe.

The most useful thing you can do today is help keep her that way.”

It was the first advice I had listened to without trying to negotiate it.

Piper was discharged that afternoon after the medical team felt her condition was stable and a safety plan was arranged.