Charlie sighed, looking out the window. “That’s a different matter, but it sheds a lot of light on Carolina’s psychological state,” he noted. “We need to find out whether that girl was given up legally, or forced into it by her own family.”

Sawyer watched his daughter sleeping, his heart aching. “I don’t want to destroy Carolina. I just want my daughter to be safe.”

“Sawyer, Carolina has already destroyed the safety of your home,” Charlie replied firmly. “Your only obligation right now is to protect your daughter from further harm.”

By mid-morning, Carolina arrived at the hospital unannounced, looking surprisingly composed in a white blouse and heavy makeup. Bonnie trailed behind her like a shadow, looking as arrogant as ever.

“We need to talk,” Carolina said, gesturing toward the hallway.

Sawyer stepped out, leaving Charlie by the door to make sure nothing went wrong.