“She’s doing well.”
I looked at James.
He was terrified.
Not of the hospital.
Of me.
That was when I finally understood that whatever he was about to ask had nothing to do with Anna wanting him back.
Anna was dead.
This was about the baby.
James took one breath.
Then another.
“She has no one.”
I didn’t move.
“Her father’s not coming. Social services reached him. He signed something saying he isn’t seeking custody.”
My mouth went dry.
“Already?”
“He left months ago. Apparently, he doesn’t want involvement.”
Anger flashed through me so quickly it almost felt clean.
James continued.
“The hospital social worker explained what happens next.”
“What happens?”
“Temporary placement while they search for relatives and determine guardianship.”
He looked through the glass.
“They don’t think there are any relatives.”
I knew what was coming.
Still, when he finally said it, the words felt enormous.
“I want
