Chapter 8 - HOSPITAL SECURITY
Cole was banned temporarily from Poppy’s ICU room.
Not by me.
Hospital administration.
After the oxygen incident, the hospital’s safety team reviewed:
Video.
Nurse statements.
Naomi’s report.
Security response.
They issued an emergency restriction.
Cole could receive updates through an approved channel while child-protection and legal teams assessed safe visitation.
Laurel remained at bedside.
I could visit because Laurel wanted me there.
Then Naomi pulled me aside.
“You cannot use your security people to control this floor.”
“I didn’t.”
“One is standing outside the elevator.”
“For me.”
“Move him downstairs.”
I almost argued.
Then stopped.
“Done.”
Hospital.
Their rules.
I sent both guards to the lobby.
That night I sat alone in a plastic chair beside Poppy’s room.
No men.
No suit jacket.
No signet ring visible because I had taken it off after washing my hands and forgotten to put it back.
Poppy opened her eyes.
“Grandpa.”
I stood.
“Hey, bug.”
“Mask itchy.”
“I know.”
“Take off?”
I looked at Naomi.
She came over.
“Not yet.”
Poppy frowned.
I did not override.
Did not promise.
Did not bargain.
Naomi adjusted the strap.
“Better?”
“A little.”
That was authority used correctly.
The child complains.
The doctor evaluates.
May you like
Adults listen.
No one makes breathing a referendum on pride.
