Two military police investigators came behind her.
Then Detective Marcus Harris from county police.
Then a child protective services worker.
Then my attorney, Naomi Price.
Then two paramedics with emergency bags.
My sister’s wineglass tilted in her hand.
My mother said nothing.
For the first time since I had known her, Eleanor Hayes had no ready line.
Detective Harris looked at Sophia on the floor.
His jaw tightened.
“This is not a family disagreement.”
Captain Ruiz looked at me.
“Sergeant Hayes.”
I nodded once.
“My son first.”
The paramedics moved fast.
Audrey stepped back like the medical bags were contagious.
One paramedic took Leo from my arms. The other knelt by Sophia and began checking her eyes, her pulse, the bruises on her ribs.
Sophia grabbed my hand.
“Don’t let them take him.”
“They’re not taking him from us,” I said. “They’re helping him.”
My mother’s voice sharpened.
