“It protects both the mother and the baby.” Atherton’s brows go together. “Since this particular mother didn’t relinquish her baby to a doctor or police officer, she could be in trouble. Will she be charged?”

I hadn’t wanted the conversation to go in that direction; the last thing I want to do is frighten Chloe. “That’ll be up to the county attorney, but I don’t think so. I suspect this girl is young. Maybe even a minor. I think she may have recently suffered a devastating, personal loss and felt she couldn’t deal with a new baby all alone.” I look at Chloe. “Bottom line is, she did the right thing. She took her baby to a safe place. I think she even waited and made sure someone took in the baby. As chief, I’ll do everything in my power to help her.”

Chloe looks away, but I tilt my head, catch her gaze, and maintain eye contact. Her face is flushed, her forehead shiny with perspiration. “I know it sounds odd, considering the circumstances, but I think we’re dealing with a courageous young woman. I think she cared for the well-being of her child, but needed some time to pull herself together and put all of this into perspective. I believe she’s going to do the right thing and come forward.”

“I hope so,” says the doctor.

I didn’t expect Chloe to admit to anything tonight. But if she is Baby Doe’s mother—and I suspect she is—I wanted her to know that while the situation is serious, the repercussions may not be as dire as she’d anticipated.

Rising, I extend my hand to Dr. Atherton. “Thank you for your time.”

“Thanks for the update, Chief Burkholder.”

I smile at Chloe and offer my hand. “Good luck in Phoenix.”

“Thanks,” she mutters.

But her hand is cold and limp within mine.

* * *

After a long day, I’m looking forward to spending some quality time with Tomasetti at the farm, but thoughts of Baby Doe have been tugging at my brain all day; a little hand reaching out and touching me with tiny, soft fingertips. I know she’s being well cared for at the hospital. Still, the thought of her being brought into the world, unwanted and abandoned, plucks at my heartstrings. Since the hospital is on my way home, I opt to make a quick stop to see how she’s doing.

It’s fully dark when I park adjacent to the ER entrance and make my way to the nursery. The ward is brightly lit, cheery, and bustling with activity. I see new mothers and fathers in homey birthing rooms as I pass. The mewling cries of newborns as they’re taken to and from the nursery.

I’m on my way to the nurse’s station when I spot the RN who was on duty when I brought in Baby Doe. She spots me and smiles. “I knew you wouldn’t be able to stay away.”

I smile back. “I thought I’d stop in to see how she’s doing.”