“Mr. Ransom,” Sterling said coldly. “Your shift ended seven hours ago. You’re in violation of hospital policy. Stand up, hand the infant to the nurse, and leave the floor immediately.”

Sarge didn’t blink. He didn’t raise his voice. He spoke with the quiet, terrifying authority of a man used to giving orders in the dark. “She’s sleeping.”

“I don’t care if she’s sleeping,” Sterling snapped, reaching out as if to take the baby himself. “You’re a liability. Hand her over.”

“Stand down, sir,” Sarge said, the words slicing the air like a blade. “Do not touch this child.”

Dr. Evans sighed and stepped forward. “Mr. Ransom, please. We’re going to take her.”

Evans reached down, slid his gloved hands under the baby, and lifted her an inch off Sarge’s chest.