“They signed the papers in the office downstairs.”

“They’re driving back to Oakwood right now.”

Rachel didn’t ask for an explanation or offer empty sympathy.

She didn’t tell me everything was going to be all right.

She took a blood pressure cuff off the wall monitor and uncoiled the gray tubing.

“The state takes over custody tomorrow morning,” I said.

I stared at the stuffed bear Linda had left on the sheets.

The ribbon around its neck was tied in a perfect, neat bow.