Dr. Keller suspected stress-induced cardiomyopathy or an intermittent rhythm disturbance — neither immediately dangerous, both requiring observation. Ethan agreed to stay only after Dr. Keller warned that leaving against medical advice would be documented in detail.

He had always distrusted authority but respected paperwork.

I arranged for Ava to spend the night with Daniel and his wife, Rachel. Ava agreed only after negotiating two episodes of her favorite science program and permission to bring the pudding she hadn’t finished.

Before she left, she wrapped her arms around my waist.

“You’re coming later?”

“Yes.”