She knew exactly how he felt–how close they’d all come to losing each other. In the dim quiet of her hospital room, she ran her fingers through his thick hair as he kissed her fingers and released them. He smiled at her and then his gaze drifted to his daughter, sleeping quietly in the next bed. Her eyes followed his, her heart twisting in unbelievable relief and joy. Max fought long, hard and uselessly to get Lizzie in the bed next to hers instead of in Pediatrics. Kat made a single phone call and the request was granted. Professional courtesy had its privileges. “How’s Miriam?” she whispered. “She’s stabilized enough they’re starting to think about surgery. The infection’s better.” He spoke so quietly she could barely hear. She grabbed Max’s hand, sealing her mouth with his palm. Max kissed her hair. “I’ll take Lizzie to see her tonight. I’ll tell her what happened, and that I know.” He cleared his throat and changed the subject. “Did you call your mom?” She nodded, amazed, still unable to believe her mother was innocent.
